Coffee Shop - Rupert And The Fig

It’s the kind of local that would lock like a jigsaw piece into most suburbs: friendly staff, comfortable seating, modern decor, a simple menu and honest, no-frills coffee. But Rupert and the Fig, named after past and present incumbents, defies its Brighton location by attracting Church Street’s less selfconscious cafe set – retirees, business types and mums on a mission. There’s barely a bottle blonde in sight. Owner Dean Atkins took over almost three years ago, adding barista Andy Gelman (ex Icoco) and importing a Tasmanian bean blend. A self-roasting venture is planned and Atkins intends to create his own down-to-earth coffee style. Espressos will remain lightly acidic, finishing with a bittersweet chocolate punch, and Gelman’s smoothly textured milk will continue to please all comers.