Owners grateful for local COVID support

Kellie ... “We have deliberately created a space that feels like home ... (food) not only breaks down barriers — it brings people together.”

While the COVID restrictions have wreaked havoc on so many, there have been pockets of sunshine borne from the situation. For Kellie and Bryan of Brown Sugar Espresso in Nambour, it was a time when loyal regular customers and curious newcomers poured on the love and appreciation. 

“We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received throughout this unusual time,” Kellie said. “We know most by name and our customers feel a sense of connection, familiarity and a home away from home.

“Our decor reflects our love for beautiful things, memories and collectables. Some pieces have been brought in by customers to give a little community to our space. Each piece exudes its own history which adds nostalgia and a little warm fuzziness,” she said.

“Our coffee bench is a gorgeous piece, an old workbench, made of hoop pine timber from a 3rd generation saddlery in Albion Brisbane. Other curiosities are pieces I have collected over time and they rekindle memories for young and old alike,” said Kellie. 

“Brown Sugar is a family business in every sense of the word,” said Kellie. “We have deliberately created a space that feels like home. Growing up, family time always revolved around food. Cooking, eating and celebrating food. It not only breaks down barriers — it brings people together.” 

Brown Sugar’s menu can best be described as fresh, hearty, healthy and full of soul. Health and dietary issues are extremely well catered for. There is a very good range of dishes for people who suffer from food intolerances or allergies, or have vegan or vegetarian preferences. 

“Some of our most loved dishes are our Vegetarian Walnut and Feta Rolls, Bombay Bliss Tart and our famous Vegan Corn Fritters, which I think every diehard fritter lover needs to sample! People with various food issues can get excited about the choices we have here for them. Our coffee is a discerning artisan blend boasting a bold strength balanced with smooth caramel notes. It is locally roasted right here on the sunny coast with the passion that a family business prides in, Kellie said. “The Sunshine Coast Coffee Roastery has gone above and beyond to support us over the years.”

“Our traditional Brewed Turmeric Chai is a must try. It is handmade here in our little kitchen using local turmeric and ground spices. Brewed on your favourite traditional or plant based milk, this blend makes the perfect brew. It is warming in winter or over ice on a balmy day,” said Kellie.

Aside from the menu favourites, the daily offerings are determined by a combination of seasonal produce and Kellie’s intuitive cooking. “We source our produce locally and support other local businesses too. We take time to prepare our dishes - ready to go for people who are time poor and need to eat real food on the run, a quick, healthy convenience for people on their lunch break.” Last week was Brown Sugar Espresso’s 5th birthday. “It was a chance to reflect, celebrate and give gratitude to our wonderful heartfelt space here in Nambour,” Kellie said.

• Brown Sugar Espresso is at 2-4 Mitchell Street Nambour. Phone 5476 1296.