Bean Culture
Why Falmouth?
Nestled on the stunning southern coast of Cornwall, Falmouth is a town brimming with charm, history, and a thriving artisan culture. While its maritime heritage and picturesque harbor draw visitors from around the world, Falmouth’s growing reputation as a hub for specialty coffee makes it a standout destination for all coffee enthusiasts. Falmouth’s unique blend of coastal creativity and community spirit has cultivated an environment where independent coffee shops flourish. Here, you’ll find baristas passionate about the art of brewing, sourcing beans from ethical and sustainable farms, and showcasing a variety of brewing methods that cater to both traditional and adventurous palates. The coffee culture in Falmouth isn’t just about serving a cup of coffee—it’s about creating an experience that reflects the town’s vibrant ethos. Falmouth’s coffee shops are as diverse as its scenery. Whether you’re enjoying a flat white with a view of the Fal Estuary, exploring a hidden gem up a side street, or sipping an espresso surrounded by local art, each cafe has its own personality and story. From third-wave pioneers to cozy nooks with locally roasted beans, Falmouth’s coffee scene is a testament to its residents’ dedication to quality and innovation. Choosing Falmouth to feature in this edition of Bean Culture isn’t just about the coffee—it’s about celebrating a community that values craftsmanship, sustainability, and connection. A community that played an essential role in me falling in love the with specialty coffee world. With its stunning backdrop, welcoming vibe, and an array of exceptional coffee spots, Falmouth offers you the perfect blend of inspiration and indulgence.
DARK PONY COFFEE
Dark Pony Coffee, nestled at 6 The Moor in Falmouth, Cornwall, is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a testament to passion, dedication, and creativity. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and unwavering commitment to quality, this specialty coffee haven has quickly become a cornerstone of Falmouth’s thriving artisan culture.
The trio behind the cafe; Jacob, Mael, and Grace first crossed paths while working for the well -known Cornish coffee roaster, Origin. Their shared experiences and friendship laid the foundation for what would become Dark Pony Coffee.
Jacob’s journey into the specialty coffee world is particularly interesting. After honing his skills at the Origin roastery in Porthleven, he ventured across the Atlantic to Canada, where he deepened his expertise at a specialty coffee roaster near Calgary. This international experience fueled his passion and refined his craft, setting the stage for the ambitious endeavor of launching a cafe back home in the UK.
Upon returning to Cornwall, Jacob initially sought a change in direction, while Mael pursued a career in coding. However, when the duo stumbled upon a vacant, run-down flower shop, their entrepreneurial dreams began to take shape. With ample space across multiple stories, the location was ideal for their vision of a cafe that could eventually grow into a small roasting hub.
Transforming the dilapidated space into a thriving cafe was no small feat. Over three intense months, Jacob, Mael, and Jacob’s dad dedicated themselves to the renovation, tackling early mornings and late nights with determination. The result was a bright, inviting space featuring a striking blue shopfront and vibrant murals that reflect the cafe’s energetic personality. The art inside was created by UK based artist and graphic designer Quinn Watterson, he himself has experience working within the coffee industry in Cornwall and so was a very valued person in shaping the creative choices and journey in creating Dark Pony’s brand design.
Since opening its doors, a little over two years ago, Dark Pony Coffee has blossomed into a major coffee destination in Falmouth. Despite being one of the newer additions to the town’s coffee scene, the cafe has quickly gained a loyal following. This success stems from the team’s thoughtful approach to growth: reinvesting in the business, gradually introducing new offerings, and staying
true to their vision of making a meaningful impact in the coffee industry.
One of the cafe’s most exciting developments is its expansion into coffee roasting. With the acquisition of a roasting machine from France, Dark Pony is well on its way to establishing an in-house roastery. The team has ambitious plans to enter the online coffee bean marketplace
and collaborate with other cafes through guest espresso slots, further solidifying their place in the specialty coffee community. Dark Pony Coffee’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction hasn’t gone unnoticed. With a stellar 4.5 out of 5 rating on Tripadvisor, the cafe has earned praise for its expertly crafted brews, welcoming ambiance, and innovative approach to coffee.
Visitors are drawn not only by the exceptional coffee but also by the sense of community that permeates the space.
Dark Pony Coffee is more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee—it’s an experience. From its multi-roaster offerings to its plans for an in-house roastery, the cafe is a dynamic blend of innovation and tradition. For those who want to stay connected, Dark Pony’s Instagram profile offers a glimpse into its latest updates, showcasing the team’s dedication to their craft and community.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Dark Pony Coffee invites you to immerse yourself in the artistry of specialty coffee, set against the vibrant backdrop of Falmouth. This cafe isn’t just building a business—it’s creating a legacy in the world of coffee.
I recommend you follow the cafe team on Instagram and Facebook @darkponycoffee and if in the area I even more so recommend you swing by and grab a coffee. They are open Monday to Friday at 8:30 to 4:30 and weekends from 9 to 3. With the ambition of breaking the mould of serious specialty cafes the team at Dark Pony continue to brainstorm what the future holds and preserve their colourful, vibrant and most importantly fun approach to the specialty coffee scene and industry, both within Falmouth and the rest of the UK. Dark Pony has definitely set its sights on making a big impact, and I am sure they will.
BEACON COFFEE
28a High Street in Falmouth, is home to our next cafe to feature in this edition. If you ever find yourself exploring the old high street at the top of Falmouth, amongst the many independent businesses, barbers and tattoo parlours and you fancy a coffee or a cake, or perhaps both – Beacon Coffee is your best bet.
Beacon Coffee has established itself as a cornerstone of the town’s specialty coffee culture since its inception in February 2018. Founded by Alex and Sam, both seasoned professionals with over twelve years of combined experience in the specialty coffee industry, the cafe reflects their shared passion for exceptional coffee and community engagement.
Alex’s journey into specialty coffee began
during his time in Australia, where frequent visits to Melbourne’s renowned cafes ignited his appreciation for quality brews and inviting atmospheres. This experience inspired him to delve deeper into the intricacies of coffee production, roasting, and brewing. Upon returning to the UK, Alex immersed himself in the coffee industry, managing specialty coffee shops and refining his skills alongside esteemed UK roasters and professionals.
Similarly, Sam’s journey was sparked by a memorable encounter with a Kenyan filter coffee during a family gathering. This pivotal moment led him to explore the world of home brewing, eventually transitioning into a professional coffee career. His dedication to understanding the
complexities of coffee has been instrumental in shaping Beacon Coffee’s offerings.
Despite their two different independent journeys into the coffee world, Alex and Sam’s paths crossed working together at another specialty cafe in Falmouth. Working alongside each other and eventually becoming friends, they realised the shared ambition and dream they both had. Their ethics and passions are very much aligned, and they both always dreamt of opening cafes and creating an environment for people to come and relax, have a good time with friends, and experience
consistently great tasting coffee. Having searched for the perfect location for them to open their own shop, their current residence came onto the market, and they knew it was right.
Beacon Coffee is renowned for its meticulous selection of beans sourced from premier UK and European roasters. By rotating their coffee offerings, they ensure a dynamic and enriching
Bean Culture
experience for patrons, catering to both seasoned connoisseurs and newcomers alike. Being in an environment like Cornwall, home to so many fantastic roasters, it is easy to fall into a situation of only experiencing the same coffee. Beacon strives to change that, and to share a huge variety of exciting flavoursome coffees from all over the world.
With a perfect 5 out of 5 rating on Tripadvisor, it is no surprise that Alex and Sam have created a welcoming environment to locals and tourists alike and shared a love and standard of exceptional specialty coffee with everyone who goes through their door.
Furthermore, being voted in the top 50 coffee shops in England by Big7Travel and considered among the best in the UK by Olive Magazine, Beacon Coffee is one of the most acclaimed in this edition of Bean Culture, and without a doubt worth making the trip.
Both Alex and Sam are creatively minded people, and both excellent photographers in their own right. This creativity expands into the shop, with the walls featuring art by local artists. This is something they say is often complimented on. As well as this, that creativty goes beyond the shop itself, as their online presence is something special. Their Instagram is a visual journey of their time owning
and operating Beacon Coffee and it’s an excellent place where they showcase the fantastic coffees they serve each week. If you’re interested in following along on their journey into the specialty coffee world, I suggest dropping them a follow on Instagram @beacon_coffee or even checking out their website: www.beaconcoffee.co.uk
Situated in the historic town of Penryn, just outside of Falmouth, Situ Cafe is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a vibrant culinary and cultural destination. Located in The Warehouse on Commercial Road, this gem of a cafe has quickly become a prime example of Penryn’s food and coffee scene since opening its doors in 2020.
Founded by Sham Mulji, a chef and Specialty Coffee Association (SCA)-trained barista, and Alexa Richardson, an independent wedding and events planner, Situ Cafe blends rich family heritage, innovative culinary techniques, and a passion for exceptional coffee. Whether you’re stopping by for a thoughtfully brewed coffee, indulging in bold and flavourful dishes, or soaking up the welcoming ambiance, Situ offers an experience that’s as
memorable as it is unique.
The heartbeat of Situ Cafe is its menu, inspired by Sham’s Gujarati and Ugandan heritage. Family recipes take centre stage, reimagined with a modern twist to create vibrant dishes that celebrate both tradition and creativity. Staples like masala baked beans on sourdough, the bateta and gobi hash, and the rich, savory keema saag toastie are just a few examples of how Sham infuses his ancestral stories into the cafe’s offerings.
The menu is seasonal and carefully curated to prioritize local and sustainable ingredients. Sham’s approach to food reflects his deep respect for the communities and cultures that shaped him, as well as his commitment to reducing the cafe’s environmental footprint.
One of the most distinctive aspects of Situ is its partnership with M.V. Spices, an all-female, family-run business in Jodhpur, India. These spices, ethically sourced and bursting with authenticity, are key to crafting the cafe’s signature flavours.
For coffee lovers, Situ Cafe delivers a standout specialty coffee experience. Sham’s expertise as an SCA-trained barista shines through in every cup, from meticulously prepared espresso to perfectly brewed pour-over coffees. The cafe features beans from leading specialty roasters, ensuring variety and quality with every visit.
Situ Cafe is not just about great coffee and food—it’s also a hub for creativity and community. Sham and Alexa have cultivated a space where locals and visitors alike can come together, connect, and enjoy shared experiences.
The cafe regularly hosts private dining evenings, where guests can enjoy an intimate meal featuring bespoke menus crafted by Sham. Additionally, Situ offers workshops, events, and cultural evenings that highlight diverse cuisines and creative collaborations. These events have helped Situ Cafe become more than just a coffee shop; it’s a gathering place that fosters cultural appreciation and connection.
Open daily with kitchen hours from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Situ Cafe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a mid-day coffee break. Located at The Warehouse on Commercial Road in Penryn, it’s easily accessible and well worth the visit.
Whether you’re seeking a flavourful meal steeped in heritage, a perfectly brewed cup of coffee, or a welcoming space to connect with others, Situ Cafe
delivers on all fronts. Sham’s dedication to quality, sustainability, and community ensures that Situ isn’t just a place to eat and drink—it’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave.
For more information, visit their website (www. situcafe.co.uk) or follow them on Instagram (@ situcafe) for the latest updates and behind-thescenes glimpses.
OLFACTORY COFFEE ROASTERS
Tucked away in Penryn, Olfactory Coffee Roasters is more than just a coffee roastery—it’s a pioneer in the region’s specialty coffee movement. Since its founding in 2013 by Angel and Mariya, Olfactory has gained a loyal following of coffee aficionados and casual drinkers alike. With a commitment to ethical sourcing, sustainability, and crafting exceptional coffee.
The pairs journey into the world of coffee was anything but conventional. Both trained as lawyers; however, they decided to follow their passion for coffee, transforming an old brewery into the stateof-the-art roastery that Olfactory is today. Central to their vision was creating a space where coffee was not just a drink but a story—one that connected farmers, roasters, baristas, and customers in a shared appreciation for quality and sustainability.
To bring the vision to life, the pair invested in a custom-built Diedrich roaster, imported from Idaho, USA. This precision-engineered machine is the backbone of Olfactory’s roasting process,
allowing for meticulous control of temperature, timing, and airflow to create perfectly balanced coffee profiles.
Olfactory Coffee Roasters takes pride in its ethical approach to sourcing coffee. The team collaborates directly with farmers and cooperatives worldwide, ensuring fair trade practices and sustainable farming methods. By focusing on seasonal, single-origin beans, Olfactory not only delivers exceptional quality but also fosters long-term relationships with coffee-growing communities.
These partnerships are more than transactional; they represent a commitment to mutual growth. For Olfactory, every bag of coffee is a testament to the hard work of farmers and the care taken during harvesting, processing, and transportation.
At the core of Olfactory’s success is its dedication to the craft of roasting. Each coffee is treated as a unique entity, with profiles developed to highlight its distinct flavour characteristics.
Whether it’s a fruity Ethiopian Yirgacheffe, a chocolatey Colombian roast, or a bold, nutty Brazillian blend, the team approaches each roast with precision and creativity.
The Diedrich roaster allows Olfactory to emphasize the natural flavours of the beans while avoiding over-roasting. This approach ensures that every cup reflects the terroir and farming practices of its origin, delivering a true taste of the coffee’s story.
Olfactory is not just a roastery—it’s a community hub. The roastery’s open-door policy invites visitors to witness the roasting process firsthand, fostering transparency and a deeper appreciation for the art of coffee. Educational workshops and tasting sessions offer opportunities for customers to explore the nuances of brewing, learn about coffee origins, and refine their palates.
Olfactory also extends its community engagement through collaborations with local businesses, pop-up events, and coffee festivals. These initiatives have solidified its reputation as a leader in Cornwall’s specialty coffee scene.
In addition to its Penryn roastery, Olfactory operates a coffee shop in Falmouth, where
customers can enjoy expertly brewed coffee in a relaxed setting. The cafe’s menu includes a rotating selection of single-origin espressos and filter options, complemented by locally sourced pastries and light bites.
For those who prefer brewing at home, Olfactory offers an online store with a range of freshly roasted beans, brewing equipment, and subscriptions. Customers can choose from a variety of roast levels and flavour profiles, ensuring there’s something to suit every taste. Sustainability is at the heart of Olfactory’s operations. From sourcing eco-friendly packaging to supporting carbon-neutral shipping methods, the roastery is dedicated to minimizing its environmental impact. Angel and his team believe that true specialty coffee should not only taste good but also do good for the planet.
Olfactory Coffee Roasters has earned widespread acclaim for its dedication to quality and innovation. Frequently featured in coffee
magazines and industry blogs, the roastery has become a go-to destination for coffee enthusiasts visiting Cornwall.
Whether you’re a seasoned coffee connoisseur or just beginning your journey into specialty coffee, Olfactory offers an experience that’s both educational and enjoyable. The roastery in Penryn welcomes visitors for tours, tastings, and behindthe-scenes insights, while the Falmouth cafe provides the perfect spot to relax with a cup of exceptional coffee.
For more information, visit their website (www. olfactorycoffee.co.uk) or follow them on Instagram (@olfactorycoffee) for the latest updates. With its passion for coffee, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to community, Olfactory Coffee Roasters is not just a brand—it’s a movement redefining coffee culture in Cornwall and beyond.
espressini
Found in the heart of Falmouth, Espressini is not your regular run of the mill specialty coffee shop. Established in 2011 by Rupert Ellis, Espressini quickly became a trailblazer in Falmouth’s specialty coffee scene, setting the bar high with its dedication to quality, sustainability, and an authentic coffee experience. For over a decade, it has served as a sanctuary for coffee lovers, students, and visitors drawn to the charm of this coastal town.
Espressini was born out of a passion for specialty coffee and a desire to create a space that celebrated not only great coffee but also the stories behind it. From the beginning, Rupert focused on sourcing the finest beans from ethical suppliers, ensuring that every cup served had a story of care, craftsmanship, and sustainability.
Falmouth, with its vibrant arts and maritime culture, was the perfect setting for this vision. The town’s eclectic energy matched the cafe’s ethos, and Espressini became a reflection of its surroundings—a blend of creativity and tradition, infused with the modern artistry of specialty coffee. Very few things say eclectic energy more than a neon pink facade.
Espressini is renowned for its signature espresso blend, crafted in collaboration with the highly regarded Yallah Coffee Roasters, a Cornish roastery known for its focus on ethical sourcing and small-batch roasting. This blend has become a defining feature of the cafe, consistently delivering a balanced and nuanced cup that draws loyal customers back time and time again.
Beyond espresso, the menu features a rotating selection of single-origin coffees, showcasing beans from around the world. Each origin is carefully chosen for its unique flavour profile, allowing customers to explore a global palette of coffee experiences. From fruity Ethiopian varieties to rich, chocolatey South American beans, Espressini offers something for every taste.
Espressini emphasises quality, comfort, and a welcoming atmosphere. The interiors are thoughtfully designed with an eclectic mix of furniture and artistic touches, creating spaces that
feel both intimate and inspiring. While coffee takes centre stage, Espressini’s menu extends beyond the cup. Collaborating with local bakers and producers, the cafe offers a range of delicious pastries, cakes, and light meals that perfectly complement their beverages. From freshly baked scones to hearty sandwiches, the food is as thoughtfully curated as the coffee.
For breakfast and brunch lovers, Espressini serves a range of options featuring locally sourced ingredients, including indulgent toasties, avocadotopped sourdough, and artisanal granola bowls. The menu evolves with the seasons, ensuring that every visit offers something new and exciting.
Espressini has always been more than just a coffee shop—it’s a cultural hub where locals and visitors can come together to connect, work, or simply relax. The cafe’s eclectic atmosphere, characterized by mismatched furniture and warm lighting, invites patrons to linger, whether for a quiet study session, a business meeting, or a casual catch-up with friends.
Espressini also supports the creative community in Falmouth, frequently hosting art displays, workshops, and small events. The cafe’s walls often feature works by local artists, adding an everchanging visual element to the space.
Espressini is deeply committed to sustainability. The team prioritizes ethical sourcing, working with
roasters who establish direct relationships with farmers and promote environmentally friendly practices. Compostable cups, minimal waste initiatives, and a focus on local suppliers further underscore the cafe’s dedication to reducing its environmental footprint.
As Espressini celebrates over a decade of brewing excellence, it continues to be a beloved fixture in
Falmouth’s coffee scene. With his commitment to quality, community, and sustainability, Rupert and his whippet Beau have become staples of Falmouth’s community. Espressini isn’t just a coffee shop; it is a home away from home.
Bean Culture is a publication that aims to share with everyone the wonderfully unique rabbit hole of the specialty coffee world, but also make it accessible to newcomers and experienced coffee lovers.
This magazine serves as a guide to the very best coffee places and spaces that towns and communities have to offer.
All aspects of Bean Culture are created by me, Simon Shea. I’m a photographer and specialty coffee addict. You can follow me on instagram @s.shea.photos
I hope you enjoy reading this as much as I did making it.
