Genovese Coffee House

Adam Genovese knows a thing or two about coffee. The eponymous business his grandfather founded has been roasting beans in Melbourne since 1970 – and the brand has smartly chosen to open its first Sydney hospitality venue in an artfully converted warehouse in the industrial backstreets of Alexandria.

Genovese Coffee House is designed to feel intimate and cosy, with Italian influences laced throughout. Designers Alexander & Co wanted to celebrate the history of the Genovese family – founder Alfio Genovese arrived in Australia from Italy in 1950 – enveloping the venue in warm, earthy tones, exposed brick and wood accents. It’s outfitted with chic ’70s-inspired furniture, including a special cabinet designed to display the family’s collection of antique coffee equipment.

Naturally, most of the space is dedicated to coffee. One of several espresso machines sits opposite a large communal table used for public cupping sessions, home barista courses and alternate brewing courses. The main entrance leads to a stand-up espresso bar, reminiscent of those found in the streets of Italy, offering wallet-friendly ’spros on the go.

They’re paired with a rotating selection of Italian delicacies baked in-house – mini hazelnut bombolone, crumbly biscotti, citrusy ricotta-stuffed sfogliatelle and oozy cannoli. The cafe menu has a range of panini sandwiches, pressed focaccia sandwiches, and deli plates (available on weekends) piled with burrata, house-cured meats and pickles.