Almond milk cocktail anyone?
With the new wave of alternative milks hitting the UK scene and London Coffee Fest just around the corner, it only seems right to take the humble almond and create a little “latte art” infused with cherry, chocolate and alcohol, right?
Hotting up on the beverage coffee scene we introduce Grind and the head of their coffee game, Sam Trevethyen. As a relatively young company (founded in 2011) they already have nine locations across some of London’s most prestigious suburbs, with their roasting heart in the hipster hot-spot that is Shoreditch, churning out some of the finest brews around. Way ahead of the game on all fronts, with an aim to combine good coffee, fine dining, and a little alcoholic action, Grind appear to have the magic formula. Throw in some passionate and talented folk to serve you, Grind are truly killing it at the “Daily Grind”.
Collaborating on said “Daily Grind”, is Almond Breeze Barista Blend – the answer to any barista’s alternative milk frustrations. The two have teamed up to create the aptly named “Daily Breeze”, to fuel those late night pangs for a little taste of the morning, especially for London’s Coffee Festival. Much like the ever popular Espresso Martini, Daily Grind offers dessert in a glass with a kick – an almond kick – and can be found in all venues for a few weeks surrounding the festival.
This cherry liquor, chocolate and almond beaut is ideal for those who haven’t quite had their fill of mouth watering beverages during daylight hours. At the helm and behind the milk jug – Sam Trevethyen, Grind’s Head of Coffee.
Sam is driving Grind’s London coffee reputation to new heights and looking to create big waves in the future customer experiential dining and social experience. Each Grind venue offers something a little different to the next, reflective of their location and daily customer base – something Sam knows all too well, gaining his passion for the bean whilst working as head barista in Melbourne’s very own Drugstore Espresso in South Yarra.
We sat down with Sam (over a few Daily Breeze cocktails, of course) and found out what drives him and his view on the evolving London coffee scene.
“I love my job. Genuinely love it; I’m one of those people. I never expected to find a career in coffee, and it’s really changed my life. If I get to share a little of my passion with someone else and impact them, that’s why we do it, right? Working at Grind has enabled me to share that passion with others, not to mention the fact we do amazing food and awesome cocktails.”
Sam goes on to explain how recognising trends across the continent and monitoring progress overseas helps to draw upon new skills and the importance of this to stay ahead of the game.
“I think the UK, US and Australia are always keeping an eye on each other, seeing what we’re up to – what they’re up to. Right now, I’m really excited about the developments in automated specialty equipment, things like the Puqpress and UberMilk.”
The collaboration of brands such as Grind and American owed Almond Breeze is helping to offer the gluten free, vegan – friendly and low calorie seeking consumer a high quality coffee experience. As both brands grow across the city, it appears so does demand for high-quality, ethically sourced product. Consumers know what they want, and it no longer comes in the form of premix cocktails or instant coffee jars. Move over quick fix; passion and product quality are back.
Whether you’re after your morning caffeine fix or an afternoon tipple, these guys have it covered, so if you’re lucky enough to be heading to London town any time soon…get down to your closest Grind venue and ask for a “Daily Breeze”. Sceptics, get ready to be pleasantly surprised.
