"Welcome to Five Senses Coffee"

When John and Maggie Leever decided to leave the world of high fashion and venture into coffee, they wanted to retain the sense of style that they were known for. Where better, then, to set up shop than St Kilda, where the fashionable flock to share the latest gossip over a coffee.

After checking out plenty of cafés (and imbibing the mother-load of coffees) John and Maggie decided on Grocery Bar St Kilda, took the plunge and purchased the café six months ago. “We loved the great vibe, and were impressed by its strong local following,” explains John.

Not exactly ‘hospitality virgins’, John and Maggie have the benefit of many years previous experience in the hospitality industry in the United States and at a restaurant they owned in Darlinghurst, Sydney.

They invested in first-class equipment — a three group Synesso and three grinders — a sure sign of their dedication to fine coffee. One of these grinders is reserved for a single origin coffee (which changes monthly) one for their carefully crafted 5 Senses house blend and one for decaf.

John and Maggie were keen to include Fairtrade Organic beans in the Grocery Bar house blend, and decided upon the Dominican Republic Barharona and the PNG Purosa as a base for their blend. Combined with the Brazil Ipanema, this blend creates a wonderfully deep bodied coffee — there are hints of fruit and rich forest floor with a delicious dark chocolate overtone providing a cup of comfort in this St Kilda haven.

Apart from the glaringly obvious reason to choose 5 Senses (we roast the best coffee money can buy) John told me that he appreciates 5 Senses’ friendly approach, consistent and reliable support, the broad range of beans, “and your willingness to explain every detail of roasting to create better understanding and better coffee”.

It’s clear that John, Maggie and their team are committed to the art of fine coffee. John’s attention to detail is apparent, and he stresses the importance of “fresh beans, freshly ground, a nice even pour and changing the temperature to suit the bean.” He also notes that “the Synesso makes this easy with its ability to allow individual temperatures for each group head.”

John and Maggie’s desire to serve the very best doesn’t stop with the coffee. The Grocery Bar team serve up an awesome variety of teas, including home brew chai and their caffeine-free tea which contains all natural ingredients (suitable for vegans). Organic bonsoy is available for those who prefer the soy option.

Head Chef, Jarrod, can tempt even the toughest of tastebuds, serving up healthy low fat breakfasts, including Kapai Puku porridge, eggs Benedict and a DIY option. Lunch offerings range from cafe specials like Turkish pides and fresh baguettes, to soups and salads and weekly specials such as hearty bangers and mash or lasagne.

John and Maggie have just started on their journey into the fascinating world of all things coffee, but it’s apparent that they are enjoying the ride, and are serious about the standard of coffee they serve. They have a great team of people helping them, so you’re sure to find a friendly face behind the counter when you head down for one of their fine coffees. Heading to the Grocery has never been so much fun!

Grocery Bar St Kilda: 135 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda VIC 3182; Phone: (03) 9537 1137

Opening Hours: 6.30am – 5.00pm Monday to Friday; 7.00am – 5.00pm Saturday; 8.00am – 5.00pm Sunday