Coffee, community and connection at Albie’s Coffee Bar, The Entrance.
Right opposite the Picnic Point Reserve, the morning sun shines over the lake as dog walkers, parents with strollers, and joggers start their day. Simple white and blue stools dot the footpath around the large open window where the staff of Albie’s Coffee Bar greet the locals and serve up an epic cup of coffee.
This location was no accident, but patiently planned by owners Jason and Sophie, to bring a local feel to what is otherwise a tourist town. Named after their son Albie, the pair opened the cafe with the vision of coffee, community and connection. Located away from the carnivalesque centre of The Entrance and focusing on specialty coffee, Albie’s brings a completely new vibe to the area.
The relaxed feel, wide open space, and welcoming nature of Jason and Sophie immediately put a pep in your step, and that’s before you’ve had your coffee. It’s clear they love what they do as they have a chat with every customer, know everyone by name, laugh at the antics of energetic Albie, and sing along to the old school 90s tunes playing from the window.
You will feel like part of the family even if it’s your first visit and the quality coffee will definitely turn you into a regular. Being a Monday morning may have made my coffee that little bit more like liquid gold, but it’s clear that on any day Albie’s serves a killer brew.
The beans are supplied by Veneziano Coffee Roasters, and Jason chose them not only for their exceptional quality and reputable practices, but because
“they are good people, no BS, and genuinely want to support what we do”. After 10 minutes with Jason and observing the joy he has with his customers, it’s clear this is strong value flowing through Albie’s Coffee Bar.
The reception so far proves this breath of fresh and fun air is a welcome addition to The Entrance. Jason says they have only scratched the surface with what they plan for Albie’s, yet in just their first 3 months have already exceeded where he hoped to be after six. Interior seating is coming, plus the addition of a few more menu items such as cold-pressed juices.
Yet the focus will remain squarely on good coffee, connection and the chill atmosphere, “We don’t want to try to do everything, rather give everything to what we do.” says Jason.
A visit to Albie’s Coffee Bar will leave you with a smile on your face and an appreciation for the value of community on the stunning shores of The Entrance.
