A fresh take on a neighbourhood favourite
For over a decade, Side Pocket Espresso stood as a cherished fixture in the Mayfield community, serving up more than just coffee – it became a hub for locals.
After ten and a half years in their original space, owners Kat and Amy have embraced change with their refreshed venture, The Pocket Mayfield, just a stone’s throw from their original spot. While the location may have shifted, the heart of this cafe remains firmly rooted in the Mayfield community they love.
“We’ve always wanted somewhere where people could pull in, pick up a nice takeaway coffee and something to eat then go. Over the years, it’s just become more and more,” Kat said.
What began as a simple coffee stop gradually evolved into a local institution – in an unassuming spot that many have come to depend on for more than just a caffeine fix.
“We knew that the block was getting knocked down eventually, so we had to start looking at our next step and that gave us the really unique opportunity to think about where we wanted to take it and to be able to create a new space that is fresh and reflects us now.”
Enter The Pocket Mayfield – a refreshed space on the corner of Maitland Road and Elizabeth Street that holds onto the essence of what Kat and Amy originally created, but with a more contemporary, grown-up feel.
“We’re different, the area is different, the demographics have changed. So, naturally it made sense that our brand would be different,” Amy said.
From the outset, the duo knew they didn’t want to stray too far from their loyal customer base. Their new location is just a short hop from their OG spot, but it represents a fresh chapter for this couple and their business.
“It’s same same but different. Same energy but just a different space. It’s still us. We don’t take ourselves too seriously and neither does this brand. It’s just fresh.”
True to its roots, The Pocket still serves up its signature Single O Roasters coffee. The menu, too, is a balance of old favourites and new offerings.
“Currently the menu is half same, and half fresh. Just to ease in and test the waters.”
With Tara at the helm in the kitchen, there are some beautiful new dishes to complement the crowd-pleasing classics including the garlic yoghurt eggs with your choice of either chilli oil, miso broccoli, and spring onion, or house pesto, roast cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
For fans of the popular Sunday Osteria Papazzo pop-up, rest assured, it’s still a fixture! As for future plans, Kat and Amy are keeping things open.
“We’ve talked about doing exclusive pop-up dinners potentially once a month. Watch this space,” Kat said.
The possibilities are endless, but for now, the couple is simply enjoying their new space and the community they’ve cultivated.
At its core, The Pocket Mayfield remains a reflection of Kat and Amy – an authentic, welcoming space where the community feels at home. It’s a cafe that’s grown up alongside its customers, yet it still retains the casual and playful vibe that made it a local favourite.
