A massive coffee roastery and café called The Grounds Coffee Factory has opened in a historic Eveleigh building, bringing a new level of coffee culture to Sydney.
The venue, which opened on Wednesday, 4 September 2024, is the latest project from the team behind The Grounds of Alexandria. Located at 2 Locomotive Street, the factory occupies a former railway workers’ cafeteria, blending industrial elements with old-world charm.
The Coffee Experience
At the heart of the factory is a complex coffee transportation system that moves beans across the space, reminiscent of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. Visitors can watch Nick Ferguson, the head roaster at work, while enjoying their brew.
“Our goal is to make the art and science of coffee clear and approachable,” The Grounds’ founder and director Ramzey Choker said. “Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or simply seeking a great spot for a casual meal, there’s something here for you.”
The factory offers 12 different beans and roasts daily, as well as coffee cuppings, brewing workshops, and latte art classes for those keen to expand their coffee knowledge.
Food and Atmosphere
While coffee takes centre stage, the food menu is equally impressive. Former Otto Ristorante and Cafe Sydney chef James Kidman heads the kitchen, offering a range of breakfast and lunch options.
The breakfast menu, available until 11:30 a.m., includes dishes like eggs soldiers with smoked salmon and dill, and traditional hotcakes with maple syrup. Lunch offerings feature items such as a fresh fish sandwich, vodka pasta, and veal parmy.
Kidman has added an “Australian fleck” to the menu, including lamingtons with Davidson plum jam. He’s also put a twist on classic dishes, like serving steak with deliberately undercooked onions to evoke memories of sporting club barbecues.
Design and Development
The Grounds Coffee Factory, designed by ACME & Co, pays homage to the site’s railway heritage. The project, six years in the making, faced several delays, including COVID-19 and technical issues with the coffee transportation system.
“Fortunately, we’d locked in a lot of things pre-COVID. With the way costs have gone up, there’s no way we’d have been able to do this today,” Choker explained the long development process.
The new venue will become a hub for coffee lovers and food enthusiasts alike. It will serve as a café and roastery and an educational space where visitors can learn about coffee production and brewing techniques.
Dogs are welcome in the outdoor area, making it a truly community-friendly space in the heart of South Eveleigh.
Published 23-Sept-2024
