2 minute read

Coffee and a Chat with NORTHSIDE espresso + kitchen

Getting Used to Familiar

It found its place on the Princess Street strip in February of this year, and has been the go-to spot for Sunday brunch since. With a menu full of options to satisfy not only your tastebuds, but also your daily caffeine dose, NORTHSIDE espresso + kitchen is the place to be. Inspired by Australian café culture, owners Jess and Cade opened NORTHSIDE espresso + kitchen in hopes of sharing with the Kingston community the best flat white and avocado smash one could only dream of.

At 7:30 in the morning, coffee undoubtedly in hand, I sat down with Cade and learned a little bit about NORTHSIDE espresso + kitchen—her favourite menu item? Yes please.

Q: What is the history behind NORTHSIDE espresso + kitchen?

A: When Jess and I moved from Melbourne to Kingston we noticed there were really great coffee shops and really great restaurants, but there was nowhere that did coffee and food together, giving equal attention to both. At home, the cafés all include the trinity of great food, great coffee, and great service. We wanted to bring something here that has all three of those elements.

Q: Tell us a bit about your Australian background. I’d say our food is based a little bit on Australian food.

A: Everything is supposed to be fresh and vibrant. Also, at home, coffee is really respected. I think coffee can be seen as a “fuel” here … it’s as though you have to drink a coffee in order to get going. At home, we focus on espresso drinks, so it’s more about sitting and enjoying. It’s about taking a minute to enjoy your drink with friends rather than getting a coffee and rushing out the door.

Q: What is your favourite menu item?

A: I’d have to say the Brekkie Bowl, because it’s always changing. It’s one that you’ll never get tired of. I never get tired of the Brekkie Bowl … or the Avo Smash.

Q: What’s one thing you wish people knew about NORTHSIDE espresso + kitchen?

A: Jess and I put everything into this place. We sold everything in Australia, moved here, and this is what we did. Everything that we bring in to this place, we’ve thought about and cared about. We’ve tried to be very thoughtful about everything. For us, it’s almost like having a little piece of home here.