Cheeky Grin’s Stefan Iannace Opens Ways Coffee in Hampstead Gardens

After building a loyal following with Cheeky Grin in Firle, Stefan Iannace is ready for his second act. Iannace has teamed up with David Girolamo to open Ways Coffee, a specialty coffee shop in Hampstead Gardens.

“Dave and I first met through Cheeky. He was a customer,” Iannace tells Broadsheet. “I always joke to people about the fact that I met my wife making her coffee, and now I’ve met my business partner doing the same thing.”

Girolamo was a stranger to the world of hospitality – he works as the building director at Diaz Homes – but he and Iannace bonded over five years of coffee orders.

“I think what really fascinated him was the constant ups and downs that hospitality brings. I like the idea of him coming from a building background – that helps feed our perspective a little bit more. We’ve had a really good balance, and we work really well together.”

Coffee is the main event, and Iannace has stuck with his long-time bean supplier, Willow Bend, which is known for its dark roasts.

“We just find his coffee is super consistent and strong, so if we do have regulars, they know what to expect. They know it’s nice and dark. We also offer filters, batch and cold brews, some of these single origin beans as well. So, there’s something for everyone,” he says.

Adelaide’s still infatuated with the sandwich so, no surprise, the food offering includes a range of sangas, including Spicy Chook, with buffalo chicken, celery and cheese, and a prosciutto number with rocket, stracciatella and house-made vinaigrette. The team has plans to introduce a weekend sandwich special down the line. Sweet treats are delivered daily from Prove Patisserie.

The fit-out was steered by Stefan’s wife Rhianna Iannace. It has a distinct feel: while Cheeky Grin’s interior is rustic with eclectic furnishings, Ways is more modern with stainless steel benching, upholstered booths, and a family-friendly courtyard. And while most people might grab and go, the space seats 50, so there’s room to linger.

Ways Coffee
Unit 1/19 Ways Road, Hampstead Gardens
0412585711

Hours:
Mon to Fri 7am–2.30pm
Sat 7am–2pm
Sun 7.30am–2pm

@wayscoffee_

Additional reporting by Lucy Bell Bird.