Many thanks to all that attended the recent breakfast panel discussion about Dublins Coffee Scene.
We had a great team of industry experts brimming with all sorts of stories about Dublins Coffee Scene since Bewleys was established back in 1840. Originally set up as tea merchants - the Bewleys legacy has seen many chapters over the last 178 years. Luighsighe Kenny from Bewleys - gave us some wonderful insights into the recent reopening of their flagship store on Grafton St which underwent massive renovations over the last 4 years.
Deemed the grandfather of Specialty Coffee in Dublin - Karl Purdy is one of the most influential men in coffee in the city. Many baristas have earned their stripes working for Karl - in many of his coffee carts and more recent brick and mortar stores over the years. Started in 2004 - Coffee Angel has become the most successful speciality coffee chains in the city - with 5 stores - the most recent in the IFSC.
One of Karl’s proteges - Niall Wynn is no stranger to Dublins Coffee Scene. A previous manager of a few Coffee Angel locations - Niall opened Proper Order in Smithfield in 2016 and not long afterwards claiming the title of Irish Barista Champion. Now along with his wife Ali - the current Irish Brewers Cup Champion they are planning on opening their second location in Smithfield in early 2019.
The last few years we see numerous cafes & speciality roasters increasing in the city as the demand for the flat white seeps into mainstream high street coffee shops. Another man to work in many cafes around the city - Brian Birdy - launched his own micro roastery called Full Circle in 2016.
The future sees many threats and opportunities as we enter into the unknown with Brexit looming less than 6 months away. A great event - with load of wonderful stories and insights from our panelists. Thanks to our emcee Stephen Mullan for providing the banter and all proceeds from tickets sales for the event were donated to Inner City Helping Homeless - icch.ie
