The Proud Mary family keeps on delivering, with Aunty Peg’s the latest in the Melbourne speciality coffee scene. Many months in the making, the rumour mill has been rife with what was going on at their Collingwood site. Finally it is open, presenting itself in the form of a roastery, cafe, shop, warehouse and training centre.
From the moment of walking in the front door the warehouse nature of the venue is apparent with large open spaces. Located directly in front of the door is the front counter with a delicious selection of pastries and cakes, freshly baked upstairs. Next to the counter are the large, ornate, dresser-style shop shelves with a vast array of brewing equipment, beans, merchandise and books for sale.
The coffee bar is the centrepiece with a sweeping array of custom single group heads, grinders, filter brewing equipment and what appear to be beer taps. But they’re not beer taps in the sense that they pour beer. Pioneering a new technique of cold brew coffee, a local Geelong-based brewery has been enlisted to brew coffee in cold water which is then kegged and poured on tap with the help of some nitrogen. Served in a beer glass to complete the experience, it almost similar to Guinness in body.
A delicious apple and raspberry tea cake matched surprisingly well.
It should also be noted that this is a black coffee-only cafe, there is no milk available. This has been done to better highlight the qualities of the many coffee beans on offer.
Next to the bar are a number of benches with demo brewing equipment for prospective customers to try out with an endless supply of beans. The stars of the show, the roasting machines, are visible further back in the warehouse.
It is clear that Aunty Peg’s is all about bringing quality coffee and its origins and various brewing techniques closer to the general public. A must visit for anyone interested more in coffee or just to taste some good coffee and tasty cakes and pastries. But above all else, visit for the cold brew.