When it comes to crafting the perfect cup of coffee, the equipment and workflow behind the counter are just as crucial as the barista's skills. At Village Pantry on the picturesque Coffs Coast, their espresso bar setup is a testament to thoughtful design and efficient workflow. Having been involved in their journey from the very beginning, we take pride in the role we played in shaping their setup, which has become integral to their growth and success.
The Layout: Designed for Efficiency
From the moment customers walk in, the layout of Village Pantry’s espresso bar is designed to minimize congestion and maximize efficiency. Customers approach the counter with a clear view of the display and menu, streamlining the ordering process. Once an order is placed, the barista and supporting staff work seamlessly together. Orders are written on cups, which then follow a linear path from preparation to completion, ensuring a smooth workflow with minimal backtracking or delays.
The Workflow: Consistency and Speed
A significant part of Village Pantry's success lies in their efficient workflow. By assigning specific tasks to each team member, the barista can focus on crafting the perfect espresso while other staff members handle auxiliary tasks like preparing syrups, chocolates, and chai. This division of labor not only speeds up service but also ensures consistency in every cup.
The Equipment: Tools of the Trade
Village Pantry's equipment lineup is nothing short of impressive. They use two Anfim SP2 Plus grinders alongside a Best on Demand grinder for their decaf offerings. Their house blend, our Champion blend, and single-origin beans are each dedicated to specific grinders, allowing for quick and precise brewing. Six weeks ago, we upgraded their setup by replacing an EK 43 with the SP2 Plus grinders to handle increased volume and maintain speed without compromising quality.
Each grinder is labeled with detailed recipes, ensuring that every staff member can dial in the perfect grind and extraction consistently. They also use dosing pots and scales to weigh each dose, a critical step when brewing up to 40 kilos of coffee a week.
Advanced Tools: Enhancing Quality and Speed
To further enhance their workflow, Village Pantry uses a PuqPress for consistent tamping pressure, paired with an NCD tool for proper distribution. These tools have streamlined their process, ensuring that every shot pulled is of the highest quality without the variability of manual tamping.
Their La Marzocco FB80 machine, a dual boiler model, ensures consistent extractions even during high-volume periods. With three group heads and high-pressure steam capabilities, they can efficiently handle the demands of a busy cafe environment.
Automation and Innovation
Innovation doesn’t stop there. Village Pantry has incorporated an i-rinse hands-free jug rinser, allowing staff to clean milk jugs quickly without interrupting their workflow. This small but significant addition frees up time and keeps the process moving smoothly, even during peak hours.
A Model for Success
The thoughtful design and equipment choices at Village Pantry have set them up for success. Their streamlined workflow ensures that every customer receives a consistent, high-quality coffee experience. For cafes looking to optimize their setup, Village Pantry's espresso bar is a model worth emulating.
If you're planning a new cafe or considering renovations, we'd love to help you create a setup that maximizes efficiency and quality. Feel free to reach out to us through Artisti Coffee Roasters, and let’s discuss how we can elevate your coffee service to the next level.
For more insights on cafe design and layout, check out our video with Luke, linked below. And if you have any questions or need advice, drop them in the comments or contact us directly. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel, like our videos, and hit the bell icon for updates. Thanks for reading, and see you next time!
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