Tucked away off Stanley Street is Republic Coffee Traders. Taking over a space formerly used as an industrial site for 70 years, the spot has been overhauled and turned into a weekday spot for lunch and coffee for local workers as well as a casual meeting spot for brunchers and families on weekends. Owned and operated by Ben Raymond, the founder of well loved cafes Blackbird Espresso in Camp Hill and Espresso Republic in the City, Republic Coffee Traders will be a fully-fledged roaster come February, commencing production of Republic’s own roast with beans sourced from Colombia and Ethiopia. The house roast will be available wholesale and at all three of Ben’s locations. Republic Coffee Traders will also host community roasting nights and cupping sessions, further establishing itself as a community hub once it becomes licensed for functions in the near future.

Those looking for a scrumptious feed will enjoy Republic Coffee Trader’s menu, which focuses heavily on locally sourced produce with everything drawn from within a 100km radius. Patrick Laws has come onboard as head chef, who formerly helmed the kitchen at Campos in Newstead. The menu consists of breakfast and lunch favourites with attention paid to making each dish unique – interesting twists and flair has been added to every meal. Breakfast options include granola from The Unrefined topped with local greek yoghurt and chai steeped stone fruit, as well as corn and cheddar hush puppies, poached eggs, summer bean salsa and fresh herbs and a salivation-inducing breakfast burger with fried egg, bacon, tomato chutney and cheddar on a brioche bun. Lunch includes dishes such as local smoked fish, snow pea, cucumber, mint and preserved lemon salad and southern-spiced chicken, apple cabbage slaw, cucumber and rocket burgers. Produce is sourced seasonally, so expect the menu to change as new ingredients are brought into the kitchen. Patrons will also be able to enjoy cold-press coffee, iced lattes, iced chocolates and thick shakes. Head to the Stumble Guide for more information.