COFFEE OF THE MONTH: INDIA THALANAR SUPERNATURAL

If you’ve been to, or heard any stories from anyone that has been to India, you’ll know anything associated with the country described as supernatural is somewhat… natural. India is a land of contrasts and intensities, colour, chaos and mysticism. Everything seems hyper-real and surreal. The story of Brother Baba Budan, the beloved godfather of […]

THE ARCHIES!

The Archibald has been announced! You were waiting on the edge of your seats weren’t you? Me too. Even though each time I feel like it comes around quicker than the paint’s had to dry. Very much like tax time. Nevertheless, it’s a welcome headline in the newspaper. Arts and Culture section. Which I’m sure […]

Fika autumn halloumi salad

FIKA: GOOD THINGS FOR MARCH

Hello! It’s Autumn! What a time to be alive. It’s a season I like to think of as cool and crunchy. The early mornings will become crispy, and the summer balmy evenings will become chilly, but right now, in early March – it’s still warm and glorious! It’s like the bonus round on Letters and […]

Burundi coffee bag held in hand

COFFEE OF THE MONTH: MARCH

We’re showcasing this juicy, syrupy sweet coffee from Burundi. It is grown in the Bubanza region, which is located in the northwest of the country. At an altitude of 1700 meters above sea level, the coffee plants in this region benefit from a cooler climate and nutrient-rich soil. The combination of this unique terroir and the […]

CHRISTMAS FIKA!

‘Tis the season all about getting into the Christmas spirit by getting together with your crew, peripheral crew, and crew-in-laws. So many loved ones around you! All the time! Here are some serving suggestions for how to get into the Christmas spirit all by yourself.  LISTEN Paul Kelly’s Christmas Train Such a great soundtrack for […]

Coffee (art) History: Laurette’s Head With A Coffee Cup

I’ve been thinking about the influence of coffee in art history recently. Not just its obvious influence of powering many late night painting sessions, and that maybe some works of Jackson Pollock could be explained by one too many cups of coffee. But what about coffee as the subject? Have artists through the ages appreciated […]

FIKA: AUGUST EDIITON

We did a little spotlight on the Yemeni coffee scene this month (check it out here) and I thought, since the middle eastern, hot dusty vibe is one of my all time favourite wavelengths, I’ll just roll it on into this month’s fika too. It’s tasty, and it’s warm. Eat. The Middle East has delightfully […]

THE MAGICAL INDUSTRIAL COFFEE SHOP

A good Industrial estate is a magical place. I’m not exaggerating when I compare it to Wonderland on the other end of the rabbit hole, or even more fittingly, Hogwarts.  From the outside, (the muggle) perspective, the industrial estate seems a bland, grey, indistinct, characterless conglomerate where the only colour and movement comes from hi-vis […]

FIKA: JULY EDITION

This edition we’ve got good warm feelings from both cosy winter treats, and Indian inspired culture. Warming you from the inside and outside. DRINK Tis the season to be jolly with a warm mug of mulled wine while sitting around the fireplace/fire pit with a bowl of the below in hand. EAT Sticky date pudding. […]

A CUPPA WITH FRANCO

So Franco, what do you do with Black Market Roasters? Mainly I run different types of coffee courses (Fundamentals, Latte art and Advance barista course) also here and then I visit shops helping them on the coffee side. Take us through a typical day. Depending on the course or how early or late I get […]

NOVEMBER NEWS

Our NEW Compostable bags Whilst our first custom bag run didn’t quite go to plan let’s just say we have learnt some valuable lessons this month when it comes to designing and changing coffee packaging.  We love the look and feel of our new bags! But it comes as a hard blow that they are […]

Single Origins: February

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Barahona Paraiso | Process: Washed | Elevation: 600-700 MASL | Harvest: October to June All the way from the picture perfect Carribbean comes this fabulously lush coffee.  Barahona lies in the southwest and boasts a unique growing climate, with a year-round rainfall, warm ocean current and gentle winds, which all make for a long growing season. […]