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Barista and Associates knows it has competition. Across the street and surrounding city blocks are a number of other cafes that vie for patrons custom in the heart of Melbourne's legal quarter. As distinct from being daunted by this‚ the cafe that opened just a few months ago in January 2015 has taken this head on, and with a name that signifies it means business in this part of town.
Little touches like the Gavel artwork make B&A a standout
The wall adorned with a gavel as well as various other puns (such as over the tip jars) illustrate the cafe is one well aware of its surroundings. Yet so too is it true Sean & Co who run B&A have sought to make it stand distinct on the street. This is evidenced by the plants in the window and the gun tree table immediately inside the entrance. Even in the middle of the city a natural feel is sought. And given the cafe also features large glass windows that let the light in across the room on a sunny day; this is a feeling that is well achieved.
The large windows do much to make good use of natural light on hand
Regarding the selection on offer‚ both the coffee and food deliver. The coffee tastes rich‚ fresh and sufficiently light so as to not see the flavour overpowered by strength. Given tastes can vary from person to person‚ it is perhaps true some may find the coffee lacks punch. However‚ this is easily addressed by just asking for a strong or a double. One may also encounter an issue with the croissants but not for the different reason: they taste that good you'll quickly desire a second.
Further, a particularly nifty touch is the 'loyalty board'. As opposed to handing out loyalty cards to customers which at times can be forgotten, misplaced or otherwise, B&A has sought to see regular customers always have theirs on hand - by pinning them to the wall. Not only is this a useful and functional touch; it very much communicates a ongoing awareness and engagement with B&A's customers.
B&A's Loyalty board
These little touches are not incidental, but are informed by a long-term industry knowledge. Sean, the owner of the cafe said he is committed to B&A, but also regards it as the first step in a bigger plan.
"This cafe is the start of a big dream. I had worked in the coffee industry for over a decade, and always wanted to be my own boss with a desire to influence the industry positively, " Sean said.
"Certainly I feel we've begun that with Barista and Associates and I remain committed to it. However, it should be said too my goal is to open a few more cafe's in Melbourne and create a brand."
"Plans beyond this exist too, but throughout there is a consistency across all these efforts: to deliver a great experience to each and every customer."
All up, B&A is a cafe that produces good food & drinks, and does so with a real attention-to-detail in regards to the surroundings. To be sure, while true the cafe is located in a area with a high level of competition; so too does it seem clear they need not worry. With a focus on delivering the fundamentals, as well as looking to go the extra mile with things like the loyalty board, Barista and Associates has build a good foundation upon which to build a great cafe.
