Sydney Trip

I have recently been on a trip to Sydney which allowed me more time to explore the Sydney coffee scene. I stumbled on a few more cafes where I found passionate baristas (and great coffee!) - Piccolo Padre, Koko Espresso, Cafe 22 were possibly the new highlights of this trip (in addition to the old favourites of Campos, Mecca, Sapphos & Single Origin).

I met Ed Cunningham of Piccolo Padre on Darling st Rozelle (Ed also runs his own boutique coffee supply business called "The little Marionette"), Ed is a good positive presence in the cafe and was very welcoming (his coffee was as smooth as his charm!).

At Koko Espresso in Devonshire st Surrey Hills I managed to stumble on the owner (his name now passes me) conducting a training session with a new employee. I have since learned that the owner has previously competed in barista championships rivaling previous World Barista Champion Paul Basset. The coffee (Allpress) was very well made and as enjoyable as the personable and comfortable surrounds provided.

Ben at Cafe XXII in Union st Pyrmont had resently launched his own espresso brand "Cafe Fiori". The acidity of the blend cut well through milk; when combined aesthetics of the beautiful building the cafe is located in and the upbeat and positive tempo of staff, Cafe 22 presents quite an alluring space.

I would recommend all of these cafes quite highly if you are planning a trip to Sydney.

Tassie Trip

Recently I went to Tasmania where I spent a considerable amount of time with Dane of Island Espresso, his cafe which has earned the reputation of making some of Tasmanias best espresso.

Dane had just installed a new 10Kg topper to begin wholesale supply of coffee in Tasmania and I had the opportunity to assist with some of the first roasts out through his machine. I have attached a link to some pictures on my flicker account and a short video of Dane describing his objectives of the roast for the bean he was blending at the time.