Recently I was walking toward the Adelaide Railway Station, down Bank Street, wondering what the area will look like when the upgrade is finished. Outside Bonobo Espresso I noticed the sign, 'SALA art inside. Plus awesome coffee'. I enjoy looking at art and the promise of awesome coffee was impossible to resist.
I couldn't resist the promise of art and awesome coffee
I entered Bonobo Espresso and ordered a cappuccino and a piece of toasted banana bread. The owner, Derek Crozier, served me and was quick to mention the banana bread is 30% bananas, baked locally and served spread with organic butter. This made me feel virtuous about eating that delicious banana bread, instead of guilty.
Derek is passionate about coffee
By the way it was awesome coffee, not just an empty promise.
So the next day I returned. Even though I had no need to come into the CBD, I found a reason just so I could return to Bonobo.
Derek remembered I liked a cappuccino, extra hot, but I was intrigued by the idea of a Nutella latte so that's what I ordered.
When a coffee supplier suggested adding Nutella to coffee, Derek had been dubious. However, he experimented with the idea and iced nutella latte proved to be the most popular drink of the summer. I can assure you the hot version hits the spot on a cold winter's day.
Next time I am going to try the Bounty latte, made with coconut milk and said to taste like a Bounty bar, but in a liquid form. If you haven't guessed, Derek likes trying out new flavours, listens to feedback from his customers and pays attention to detail.
Latte art adds something special to a cup of coffee
Derek's positive personality and a passion for good coffee were evident as soon as we started conversing. He has an extensive background in the coffee industry, having started out as a barista back in 2001. Derek spent several years as a film producer reporting on barista coffee competitions around Australia and did cafe reviews for the Adelaide Review.
Other ventures included manning a coffee van called Combi Coffee, which did the rounds to various events such as WOMADelaide, and advising folk setting up cafes and training their staff. With these varied experiences in the coffee industry behind him, Derek opened his own cafe in 2016.
Bonobo Espresso opens at 7am Monday to Friday so city workers can grab their favourite hot drink and perhaps breakfast on the go as they head off to work. As well as a variety of hot and cold drinks, there are breakfast foods, packaged lunches, snacks and cakes available.
A selection of bottled drinks, snacks and light meals are available
There are a couple of tables so you can sit and sip your coffee or other hot beverage if you are not in a rush. I noticed there were magazines to read but I would recommend chatting to Derek instead.
I enjoyed relaxing as I drank my coffee at one of the tables
Wherever possible Derek stocks local produce, supporting companies such as Fleurieu Milk Company, Balance Bodies, Goodies and Grains, Moo Yoghurt and Flinders Street Project. He uses Kommon Grounds coffee which is roasted and ground at McLaren Vale.
Derek offers soy, almond and coconut milk as alternatives for customers who have allergies or just don't like the taste of dairy. There are also gluten free and vegan products available.
There are several alternatives for those who want to avoid lactose
Derek is mindful of the environment, using fully biodegradable cups for his takeaway beverages. These cups break down completely in compost in three months or less.
SALA Art
Until the end of August, as part of SALA, artwork by Yana Lehey is on display. The exhibition is called, 'Meet the Locals.' Yana is a talented local artist who sometimes works at Bonobo. What makes Yana's artwork different is that her paintings are created with espresso coffee, so it's very appropriate to have this art displayed in a cafe.
As I understand it, the process is to get a double shot of espresso, allow some evaporation to occur so the product thickens and then paint with it.
Artwork created using espresso coffee
Some of the artwork is of creatures found living in regions where coffee is grown.
Espresso painting of an animal found in a coffee growing area
Other pieces were inspired by the motifs seen adorning the surface of a cup of awesome coffee.
Some of the artwork features motifs used in latte art
If you are looking for an unusual present or a treat for yourself, consider the earrings and cufflinks featuring Yana's artwork.
Check out the unique cufflinks for sale
If you are on your way to work and need a takeaway caffeine fix, pop into Bonobo Espresso. Alternatively, next time you are in Bank Street and feel like sitting down for a great coffee and something light to eat, visit Bonobo Espresso. I would recommend starting a conversation with Derek to brighten your day. If you are curious about the name, 'Bonobo' and the mural of a chimpanzee drinking coffee, Derek will be happy to give you some background. Also, if you have questions about coffee, just ask. Derek knows coffee and is able to describe the characteristics of a particular blend the way a wine connoisseur talks about a fine wine.
Bonobo Espresso is all about great customer service, connecting with people, using local products and awesome coffee.
