With a history of working on creative projects together, Jase and Claire Millar were seeking a new venture when they launched PIQUE Coffee online in 2021.
Formerly a musician, Jase cut his teeth in the coffee industry alongside key players such as St. Ali and Veneziano in Melbourne, and Mano a Mano in Perth. Establishing PIQUE was his chance to put his skills into action.
“Claire designed my album covers and tour posters. We’ve always had that kind of relationship where we bounce creative ideas off each other,” says Jase.
“After working in the coffee industry for over 10 years, we decided it was time to start roasting our own beans and create our own brand. We both love music and art, and we take any chance we can to infuse this into what we do – be it coffee blends, food, or design.”
With the roastery established and a string of wholesale customers, in 2023 the couple opened the PIQUE Coffee Bar, a cellar door with a difference, to showcase their offering and sell direct to the public.
Doing away with traditional equipment, they introduced Modbar technology and cold-brew taps, and established a menu of creations to surprise and delight visitors.
“With the design, we wanted to ensure we weren’t hiding behind a big coffee machine so we could maximise engagement with our customers,” says Jase.
“We’ve removed the physical barrier and our innovative Modbar set-up is a real conversation starter. We have instant interaction with people, which helps us build a community of curious coffee drinkers.”
At PIQUE, Jase and Claire encourage customers to sit at the bar and sample their creations, including a refreshingly different Coffee Cola, Nitro Black cold brew, and Nitro Oat latte on-tap.
“Our ultimate goal is to pique the interest of coffee lovers and to be more than just a caffeine fix,” he says.
PIQUE Coffee
48 Grantham Street, Wembley, Perth, Western Australia, 6014
Open Tuesday to Friday 7am to 3pm, Saturday 7am to 2pm
This article appears in the October/November 2024 edition of BeanScene. Subscribe HERE.
