A new chapter is brewed in Islington
If you’ve wandered the streets of Islington lately and noticed the scent of freshly roasted coffee hanging in the air, you’ve likely caught wind of the newest addition to Newcastle’s specialty coffee scene – the opening of Unison Coffee Roasters’ micro espresso bar on Girling Street.
The project has been a long time coming for co-owners and couple Alaric and Sara, who have been building their coffee brand steadily over the past nine years, starting with a 1kg roaster in their Merewether garage.
Alaric & Sara
“We always had the dream of having a roastery, somewhere to brew, and to be able to sell our retail at the one location. Then we saw this really cool-looking building and thought it would be the perfect spot for us to grow into,” Sara said.
Officially opening the doors on Tuesday, July 15, Unison Coffee Roasters’ hole-in-the-wall espresso bar is already garnering locals’ attention and support.
“We love that it’s both residential and industrial here. There’s a real mix of people in the area, and it’s been a pleasant surprise with how busy we’ve been!”
While the espresso bar might be compact, it delivers a serious coffee punch – one Unison has become known for. Visitors can expect batch brew, pourovers, and a rotating lineup of single origin beans, with all roasting done on site.
“We’re full coffee nerds here, and because of that, we get a lot of coffee nerds coming in. I think Alaric and Garth are like top-tier in terms of selecting good quality coffee to have available. If anyone wants to really delve into their coffee knowledge, this may just be the best spot to do so!”
Ah yes – Garth! In a serendipitous twist, the former co-owner of Mr Sister has joined the Unison crew – you’ll likely find him behind the machine most days.
Sarah, Garth, and Alaric
“Garth and I have been friends for ages. He told me he’d sold Mr Sister and I just said, if you’re ever looking for work give me a call, and he did!
“We’re a good combo I feel. A lot of the time, I’m too busy roasting and don’t have time to chat, whereas Garth loves a chat – it’s a good balance,” Alaric said.
Outside of coffee, pastry fans will be pleased to know the cabinet is stocked with a selection from Tuga Pastries.
With plans to continue to grow their wholesale reach and a future full cafe fitout not entirely off the cards, the duo are setting strong and sustainable roots for this next chapter.
“I am really loving this neighbourhood. Come here for your morning coffee, and in the afternoon, head on over to Shout for beers.”
For the foreseeable future you’ll find the crew doing what they do best in Islington – roasting, pouring, and creating an environment where coffee comes together in perfect unison.
