Greek immigrants are known for their strong work ethic, entrepreneurship and contributions both to their own community and to their host country, in every field of human endeavour. The Mannassis "Mocha Coffee" Family is one of those Greek immigrant families, who have been at the forefront of Australian coffee history, delivering a unique and in-demand coffee range through a labor of love and craftsmanship.
Mocha Coffee’s expertise is well established now, with the founder’s son Paul Mannassis appointed Chief Coffee Judge for the Sydney Royal Fine Food Show, a part of the prestigious Royal Agricultural Society of NSW.
The Early Days
Their story began in the summer of 1958 in Sydney’s inner-west Newtown where Greek migrants John and Irene Mannassis committed all their savings to open one of Australia’s foremost European delicatessens. Paying respects to their Greek heritage they named the deli ‘The Olympos’. The Olympos soon became a landmark of the inner west providing traditional European foods catering for the influx of migrants arriving in Sydney.
Understanding the culture of coffee amongst Europeans, John Mannassis was one of the first to recognize the potential for coffee in Australia.
John and Irene introduced roasted coffee to many of their loyal clients and often greeted customers with a cup of traditional Greek/Turkish Style coffee. John paid much attention to his coffee and how much people enjoyed it. He soon saw the opportunity to blend coffee to suit individual preferences. Home grinders were a rare commodity and John offered his coffee ground – so began Mocha Coffee.
The first irresistible roast, a blend of natural Brazilian Arabica, Colombian supremo and genuine Guatamalan Antigua was finally roasted for restaurant consumption in 1987. Soon after, Mocha freshly roasted specialty coffees began to appear throughout greater Sydney cafés and restaurants. With increasing demand the operation moved to larger premises in neighbouring Marrickville in 2000.
In this expanded new location, the family introduced training to provide technical expertise, including Barista training, sales support and consulting services including blend development, contract roasting, retail workflow and set up.
So where do they source from?
Each year the family talks with theri growers throughout the world aiming to learn and appreciate the impact that local climate conditions have on coffee volume and quality. Their growers are predominantly smaller scale ethical, sustainable farmers found throughout most of the world’s coffee growing regions. Their growers rely purely on coffee as their main source of income and take great care to ensure consistency, quality and sustainability.
Three Generations going strong
At Mocha Coffee it’s more than just great coffee, it’s a family business, now in its third generation. Between the siblings Theo, Maria and Paul there’s 84 years combined coffee expertise in every roast. Consistency, reliability and personal service have seen the business continue to expand in the face of ever increasing competition. They're very grateful to their loyal customers base and for all those who love and appreciate their coffee!
Products and Training
Cafes, restaurants and individuals requiring more information on sales, product range and barista training opportunities can contact Mocha Coffee at:
Mocha Coffee
Unit 5, 13-21 Cadogan Street, Marrickville, NSW
Ph: 9565 5227. email: [email protected]
or visit their website at: www.mochacoffee.com.au
