NYC’s Bluestone Lane serves up premium coffee drinks in a relaxed, authentic cafe environment that reflects its Australian influence. Tucked away in a cozy corner in the West Village sits the Collective Cafe, which serves healthy, locally-sourced breakfast and lunch dishes in a casual yet sophisticated cafe environment. We talked to the team at Bluestone about their food philosophy and about their favorite cafe items.
Tell us about your background. How did you become a part of Bluestone Lane?
I have been a member of BSL since the very first store in Midtown. I worked as a casual employee before getting involved in developing the brand along side the events and catering aspect of the business.
What is unique about Bluestone? What makes it special?
Our avocado smash. I never new that it was so foreign to Americans when I have been having it all my life for breakfast, lunch and in-between. Other than our delicious Melbourne inspired coffee it would defiantly be our smash.
Describe a typical day in the life of Bluestone.
Sore legs.
What is unique about Australian café culture? How does it different from a typically American café?
That you can get great coffee and great food in the same place. I have found in NYC you have to go find your specialty coffee first and then find a delicious brunch. As an Australian I can say I don’t do brunch also. When I go to Brunch with my friends in NYC I have eaten twice before getting there. Having said that most Australians go for Breakfast between the hours of 9:30 – 11am.
What is your food and cooking philosophy?
I come from a european background so my food and cooking philosophy is to make ever thing fresh and cooked with love.
Which coffee drinks are your favorites? Which café dishes?
Magic is my go to! Perfect balance. Piccolo when I’m in a hurry and need to get my caffeine fix down quickly. Always eggs for me! I love poached eggs with corn fitters, bacon and tomato chutney! (mmmm)
What is the atmosphere you are creating at Bluestone?
Fun, easy going, friendly and Australian!
What is your relationship to the other people at the meal (at the shoot?) How do you all work together?
I am actually Aaron’s girlfriend. We meet back in Australia and after only spending 10 days together I decided to make the move to NYC to help embark the Bluestone journey. Aaron is Nick’s business partner who go way back, Sappho is Nick’s high school friend, and Jules is a friend of a friend – of course all from Oz!!
Where do you like to eat and drink on your days off?
I always search for new cafes that are opening. I recently tried Two Hands and Egg. I also went to Toby’s Estates new location. I always like to check out our competition.
What’s for dinner tonight?
My mum’s lamb curry.