A new chapter for Newcastle’s coffee scene arrives on Darby Street
Darby Street, long heralded as the beating heart of Newcastle’s coffee culture, is welcoming a bold new player to its lineup with the opening of House of Roast – bringing with them the largest range of coffee blends under one roof.
Officially opening on Tuesday, 26 November, House of Roast is celebrating their launch with FREE COFFEE from 26th-28th November, plus BUY ONE GET ONE FREE for all Peaberry’s coffee beans from 26th November to 3rd December.
“We’re so excited to cement ourselves and House of Roast here on Darby Street. It’s the iconic coffee street of Newcastle; it has the history of good coffee,” owner, James Conway said.
James Conway
For James, the commitment to Darby Street is more than just symbolic – it’s foundational. The investment into the former Monella Gelato spot by buying the building and preserving the original building’s details underscores the brand’s mission to not only honour Newcastle’s rich coffee history, but also to elevate its future.
The transformation of the building over the past 12 months has been a test of patience for the team and a complete labour of love, blending old-world charm with contemporary design.
“When we first walked in, we had the shell ready to go. But, in typical James Conway fashion, I wanted to see what was behind the gyprock. There is so much heritage and history in this building and it was too good having it hiding behind gyprock.”
When you walk in you’re welcomed into a refreshed space complete with restored brick walls and a blend of modern elements; the space is as much a tribute to the building’s history as it is to the art of coffee.
“There really is a mix of the old and the new. The building was built over 100 years ago, and to just see bits restored and then sealed off and preserved – it adds to the overall experience of the space.”
For those who have visited the OG House of Roast space out in Rutherford, you’ll be well acquainted with the team’s unique approach to coffee. For newcomers, the coffee experience on-site is designed to be immersive and interactive.
With over 20 unique coffee blends on offer from their five distinct brands (Glitch, Bliss, Peaberrys, Distribution, and Flamingo) customers are invited to explore their preferences with a personalised touch.
“We’ll make you a coffee on the house until you find the right blend that you enjoy.”
Additionally, for every retail bag of beans bought, comes with a complimentary takeaway coffee, creating a seamless bridge between their retail and coffee bar offering.
One standout offering under the House of Roast umbrella is The Crew blend by Bliss Coffee Roasters, an Australian blend that’s making its Newcastle debut.
“It can’t be found anywhere else in Newcastle and the success of that over in Rutherford is something I am very passionate about. We’re so excited to bring that to Newcastle.”
Venue Manager Taylor Schneider, a key player in House of Roast’s retail front, will take the reins of the Darby Street location. And while coffee takes centre stage, the venue also offers a thoughtfully curated grab-and-go food menu, catering to locals who appreciate quality without compromise.
“What makes me excited is seeing the people that have put in their effort into this business, show their excitement for the space to open.”
As Newcastle’s coffee scene continues to evolve, House of Roast brings their unique approach to town. With a deep respect for the past and an eye firmly fixed on the future, this new addition to Darby Street is poised to become a destination for coffee enthusiasts.
