Three years ago Geoff Harris, a key supporter of STREAT, purchased Collingwood’s beautiful Cromwell Manor for a cool $2.5 million with the aim of restoring the historical property and providing the youth-focused social enterprise with a flagship site. A little over a month ago, the result of steady planning has resulted in Cromwell STREAT, a new venue featuring a cafe, artisan bakery, coffee roastery, and youth training academy where programs have been put in place to train and support 365 youth each year to become baristas, chefs, and bakers. The immersive multidisciplinary venue also functions as a catering company and a space for private meetings, functions, and community activities which have so far included bike repairs, and community markets.
The 150 year old building is a charming character in which these programs take place, retaining a unique history mirrored in the original bricks which have been blackened with soot from the old chimneys. There’s an 80 seat eatery for the public, built around a “village square” which large outdoor seating and a family-friendly landscaped garden. The bakery and roastery also stand as part of this construction, powering a cafe menu that’s led by seasonal and local produce overseen by Executive Chef Di Kerry.
There’s an all-day breakfast menu with the likes of Crumbed Ricotta on a brioche bun and blood orange gel, Rhubarb and Strawberry Compote, and Miso Salmon served with soy sauce egg yolk in dashi broth with kishimen noodles and soy beans. Lunch brings on the likes of marinated grilled Flank Steak in a house-made baguette with green mango, fried shallot coriander, Thai basil, and palm sugar dressing, and Slow Cooked Sweet Soy Marinated Lamb Ribs with magic pop, Asian slaw, and nam jim dressing.
“Cromwell STREAT is an incredible dream come true”, said co-founder and CEO Rebecca Scott. “It means we can triple the number of young people we help each year – to 365 a year. But watch out – we are only just getting warmed up”.
Resident baker Bill Mayne will handle the spread of daily croissants, pastries and loaves which will be available from the bakery while Head Barista Iain Swift and Head Roaster Andy Barrett ensure quality coffee is accessible, including STREAT’s own brew, the awarded Social Blend which is made from beans sourced across Brazil, Ethiopia and Columbia. STREAT’s gold medal winning Swiss-water decaf will feature along with a range of other beverages, breakfast cocktails, beer and wine.
Cromwell STREAT
Address: 66 Cromwell Street, Collingwood
Website: https://www.streat.com.au/about/cromwell-site
Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-4pm; Sat-Sun 8am-4pm
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