It’s been a while since I’ve done a Local &/or General story but with my new found freedom, I have been hitting the footpaths of the suburb. The premise of Local &/or General is simple: local coffee shops within walking distance of my TIFFIN HQ in Camp Hill. Jacu Espresso is hardly a new addition to the suburb but is a new(ish) addition to my repertoire.
I say new(ish) as I actually visited Jacu Espresso some time ago in the week it opened and like many new ventures, they were under the pump, putting systems in place and generally finding their feet. That was some time ago so I decided to re-visit and see what these cool kids were up to. Located on the corner of two streets, Jacu have made the most of the space they have with a couple of small decks built onto the front and side as well as a reasonable size dining room. The cafe is busy but there are always seats and staff are attentive. They also do a brisk trade in takeaway coffee.
As I arrived and sat, I was greeted with water and an offer to take a coffee order. Once I’d perused the menu on the table, I ordered at the counter. I was hoping for the Pea & Herb Felafel w Haloumi & Labne ($18.50) but they were out of felafels so that will have to wait for another time. So, I contented myself with the B.R.A.T. – bacon, aioli, rocket and tomato on Turkish toast with a fried egg ($16.50). What a hearty meal it turned out to be with lashings of everything. The bacon was particularly good with soft and crisp pieces, so a little for everyone. This is typically the type of meal I would share with Mr Tiffin to manage portion control, our waistlines and budget but as he was nowhere to be found, I soldiered on. It defeated me.
B.R.A.T.
What was not evident on my original visit but was very obvious this time around is that Jacu take their coffee seriously (as they should, having ‘espresso’ in their name). Single origin, cold brew, pour over. You know the drill. Whilst they are serious about their coffee, they are in no way coffee snobs and were more than willing to accommodate my pedestrian order of skinny flat white. The bean of choice is Veneziano, which is a brand I wasn’t familiar with. Jacu use the Bella blend from these Sydney based roasters. Very balanced in acidity and mouth feel. I had a second coffee as a long black to try it without milk and it was just as easy to drink in this manner.
It’s a bit of a walk from my house to Jacu but I am definitely happy to add it as a pit stop on my longer suburban circuits.
Jacu Espresso
172 Bennetts Rd
Norman Park Qld 4170
Sounds like the walk is worth it, and a great way to maintain the waistline if the portions are generous.
For a short person, I can eat a lot of food which is why I try to share with Mr T whenever possible. I know the formula eat less/move more is a simple one but sometimes I struggle!
Love Jacu and the felafel breakfast is definitely worth returning for. The B.R.A.T is my second fave
I should have asked for a firm egg though. I’m not big on the runny yolk but it makes for a great photo.
I love a runny yolk, but know many who definitely do not!
Hi Fi. Sounds like a great use of you new found time.
those types of breakfasts often do me in. but at least you can walk it off on the way home. i still say our local -Elixir- has the best coffee in town:)
I have had a takeaway from Elixir when they were doing a promo in town and enjoyed it. I didn’t realise that was you local stamping ground but it makes sense now as I’ve seen a few photos on social media.