A new cafe arrival on Darby Street
There’s something undeniably special about cafes that feels like an extension of someone’s personal story.
At Pum’s Coffee Haus, the newly opened spot on Darby Street in the former Core Espresso location, that story belongs to a 24-year-old Brock Youngblutt – a former bartender – who’s poured his energy into crafting a space that balances community warmth with a fresh perspective.
Named after his grandfather – a defence veteran who recently retired from the army – Pum’s is both a nod to family legacy and a bold leap forward for Brock.
“He was very influential throughout my life – he’s always been a role model of a man that I would be proud to be,” Brock said.
The tribute was deeply moving for his grandfather, who lives in Perth and is currently getting replicas of his medals made up to hang on the walls of the cafe.
Stepping into Pum’s, you’d never guess it was Brock’s first venture into owning a business – let alone making a coffee.
“I had never worked in coffee before, I was a bartender and a manager. To learn, I basically cafe hopped around Newcastle and tasted lots of different coffee.
“Josie Coffee runs a cupping event every Wednesday morning and they just took me under their wing.”
That relationship continues with Pum’s proudly serving Josie beans alongside baked goods from Sydney-based Tuga Pastries and a food menu inspired by Brock’s own favourite eats.
The menu reads like a love letter to cafe staples done well. Think loaded focaccias, toasties, and bagels – all stacked with a unique mix of flavours.
Our picks? The pastrami focaccia complete with Swiss cheese, rocket, onions, smokey tomato chutney, and mayo; the pastrami overload bagel with mozzarella cheese, swiss cheese, pickles, and sauerkraut on an everything bagel; or your standard smashed avo with cherry tomatoes, goats cheese, and everything bagel seasoning on sourdough.
“Our food menu has very much come from the kind of food I like to eat when I’m at a cafe. When I was still renovating in here, I would mock up some toasties and focaccias and give them to my friends for feedback.”
The renovation was a complete overhaul, transforming the once dark and enclosed space into a light-filled and open interior.
While the venue now feels entirely refreshed – almost unrecogniseable – it still retains key features that connect it to its past like the inviting courtyard, the industrial-style back door, and the signature golden front entrance.
“Everything was black when we got in here. I think I had to do four layers of paint plus an undercoat to get it to where it is now. I wanted it to be open and fresh. You can see the courtyard from the front door now which you never used to be able to see.”
Open daily from 6am to 2pm, Pum’s also runs a daily happy hour from 6am to 7am, offering coffee at a slightly cheaper price – a small gesture to help early risers start their day right.
“I just want Pum’s to be a really community-focused cafe where everyone feels welcome. Whether you’re a regular or you’re coming in for the first time, I want you to feel welcomed and for that vibe to be consistent every time you visit.”
In a suburb celebrated for its vibrant cafe scene, Pum’s Coffee Haus is carving out its own space – inviting you to step in, settle down, and experience it for yourself.
