After spending her time country-hopping since 2011, Canadian Paige Simoneau eventually found herself in New Zealand ten years ago and since then has called it her forever home.
“I got into business with Carmel and Black Coffee Newtown sometime in 2018, and we've been dancing together ever since,” said Simoneau, who is not only the head barista but also the general manager and co-owner.
Making coffee on a commercial-grade barista machine is like playing one big instrument. There are many moving parts and a rhythm to maintain to achieve the perfect cupper every time.
“When you can do this and have great conversations with the revolving door of customers, day to day, at the same time, it's extremely rewarding.”
Black Coffee's Raven Blend, its house coffee, was co-designed specifically for the cafe with its coffee roasters and providers, Dark Horse Coffee Co., the only place you can find it.
The cafe also makes in-house chai blends and Canadian iced tea blends.
Providing a welcoming and comfortable environment for the community and staff to enjoy and seeing people return repeatedly because they feel that when they walk in is the most rewarding aspect of the job for Simoneau.
Simoneau describes the perfect coffee to be one that has creme on top. She usually drinks an Americano but spices things up with some Black Coffee’s chai concentrate.
During her downtime, Simoneau can usually be found on the beach with her dog and her friends. She is exceptionally grateful for her community, supporters and staff.
“We couldn't do any of it without them all, and Carmel and I are always so grateful for the love and support we receive.”
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