Epping has a new local hero for specialty coffee and fresh food lovers, and it’s already turning heads and melting hearts.
Soul Origin’s newest store opened its doors on Monday 20 October marking a first for Victoria in its new and very first drive-thru service.
Chief operating officer Adam Neill said the Epping store represents more than just convenience, but a symbol of connection, quality and community spirit.
“This community matters to us,” he said.
“We chose Epping for a reason, and the response has been humbling. We had people lining up and waiting at 4.30 in the morning on opening day.”
The newest store has been two years in the making, designed to deliver Soul Origin’s specialty coffee, and freshly made food at speed without compromising on quality.
“Speed and consistency has been a huge focus for us,” Neill said.
“But we’ll never compromise on our quality – that’s our promise.”
And the coffee is truly where Soul Origin shines. The coffee is specialty grade and roasted locally here in Melbourne, complimented by rotating single origins.
The quality doesn’t end there, as their head of coffee is a certified World Barista Judge, ensuring every cup meets world-class standards.
“One of our mantras is that every Australian deserves access to specialty coffee,” Neill explains.
“That’s what drives us.”
Epping’s newest drive-thru also introduces two exclusive menu items available nowhere else: the SO Gems, serving as a perfect on-the-go snack and the Classic Beef SO Bun, a crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, hearty and flavour-packed favourite that’s become a local hit.
Despite only just recently opening its doors, Neill says the loyalty from Epping’s locals has been overwhelming.
“We’ve already got familiar faces – our mid-morning coffee regulars, our lunchtime regulars, and our afternoon snackers. It’s a testament to the product and the people here.”
He credits the close-knit team for the smooth launch.
“We’ve worked so hard together that now we only have to look at each other to know what we want. It’s been exhausting, but absolutely worth it.”
“It’s almost like Epping voted for us,” Neill says.
“Seeing the community’s warmth and loyalty from day one has been incredibly motivating. We’re proud to call Epping home.”
