It all started with a cheeky grin — and two years later, it’s a thriving business making a difference, one cup of coffee at a time.
Picture :: Wayne Pearson
In early 2020, Stefan Iannace decided to froth things up and create Cheeky Grin Coffee as a mobile service, with plans to warm people from the inside-out at local events. Six weeks into his new gig, the pandemic hit hard. With no events to attend, Stefan asked the golden question: “How can we create something positive out of this?”
With a push from his biggest supporter, Rhianna, Stefan cleared out his parents shed in Trinity Gardens and letterbox-dropped his way around the neighbourhood, offering delicious coffee the socially-distanced way. “It was exactly what people needed — a chance to support a local business in a safe way and get out of the house while working from home,” Stefan says.
By October 2020, Stefan secured a permanent location right around the corner and expanded by taking over a second shop next door only 18 months later. After a rustic-styled reno, the vibe is a reflection of Stefan himself — it’s easy-going and welcoming to everyone who walks through the door. Whether you’re dashing past for a caffeine hit or need a quick grab-and- go, there are plenty of options, including a range of toasties, salads, pastries, juices and more. And with the new expanded space, there’s room to sit and soak in the vibes a little longer if you wish.
Picture :: Wayne Pearson
You can’t forget the star of the show — the coffee! “Our coffee is our number one priority and Willow Bend beans are the best! We’ve used them since the shed days,” smiles Stefan.
Two years and a couple of awards later (including top three for Best Coffee in the Eastside Business Awards and a bronze in The Advertiser’s SA’s Best Barista Awards), what started as the dream of a coffee cart is now a welcoming space for regulars who feel more like family.
“A cup of coffee and a quick conversation can make a difference — and now, some of my closest friends are customers from the shop!”
Picture :: Wayne Pearson
A cheeky get-together
Cheeky Grin flourished because of local support, and now, Stefan is handing that back out. Keep an eye out for the Cheeky Trot — a Saturday morning fun run, followed by a coffee. Or, if fitness isn’t your forte, head along to a Cheeky After Dark event — a collaboration with other SA businesses like Yalumba Wines, 36 Short, Barossa Valley Cheese Company and Gelista Gelati.
