The team behind Cheeky Grin Coffee bring a brand new café to Hampstead Gardens, promising more than your standard grab-and-go coffee.
Set to open soon on Ways Road, Ways Coffee is the next chapter in local favourite Stefan Iannace’s growing hospitality journey, and it’s shaping up to be a community hub with a distinctly retro flair.
“We’ve been looking for a while to do something different in another area,” says Stefan.
“Obviously our current one is quite established, so my business partner and I just wanted to create something cool and fresh.”
The name Ways Coffee is a playful nod to the café’s Ways Road location, so “nobody will lose their way(s) finding it,” he laughs.
While he’s keeping tight-lipped on the full menu rollout, Stefan teases that Ways will land somewhere between sandwich deli and casual coffee bar with a focus on quick eats and rotating weekly specials.
“There’s mozzarella toasties, avocado toast and granola pots. Nothing too heavy, just quick, simple meals. And as we head into winter, we’ll look at soups and other warm options,” Stefan says.
“It’s about giving people the choice to grab and go, or sit back and relax.”
The weekly specials are sounding more appetising than your usual potato salad chalkboard listing (not that there’s anything wrong with potato salad). Wander past this place however and you might be treated to the aroma of slow-cooked lamb shoulder one day, and buffalo chicken toasties the next.
The menu will also feature locally loved Willow Bend Coffee Roasters.
But it’s not just the food and coffee that sets Ways apart, it’s also the fit-out. With a palette of terracotta, chocolate browns, and layered textures, the space oozes retro energy with a modern boutique edge.
Think booth seating, textured walls, stainless steel tops, a splash of timber, an elevated warmth greater than your typical suburban café. The team are steadfast on stepping out of ordinary, and it’s been a collaborative effort.
Stefan’s wife Rhianna took the reigns on the design and his new business parter, David Girolamo from Diaz Homes, constructed the fit-out, championing local businesses like St Morris Upholstery.
“It’s been a real hands-on project for all of us,” he says.
“Honestly, we just didn’t want to do the usual. No blues, blacks, or forest greens. We wanted something a bit vintage, a bit different.”
For fans of Cheeky Grin, Ways will feel familiar in community spirit, but fresh in style – like the cooler, younger sibling.
“They’re in really similar areas, both with schools and parks around. It’s still about keeping that community feel, just bringing good coffee to a spot that’s been missing it,” he explains.
“It’s just a really cool space. Small, boutique, and suburban. I don’t think there’s anything quite like it.”
If Cheeky Grin’s established cult following is anything to go by, Ways coffee is set to become a neighbourhood staple. Built on the foundation of good products, good service, and community, this spot is one to keep your eyes (and noses) peeled for.
“I’m a big believer in good service and a good product. You do those two things right, and you can go a long way,” Stefan says.
Coming your way in the next few weeks. Check out their Instagram for all the updates!
WHAT: Ways Coffee
WHEN: TBA
For their Instagram, click here.
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