When you walk into Dōr. and savour a cup of coffee, you might wonder why we chose Assembly Coffee over a local supplier. The answer lies in a journey that began over a decade ago, shaped by meaningful connections, shared values, and a passion for quality.

A Serendipitous Beginning —

Our relationship with Assembly Coffee started when I met Michael and Nick through a mutual friend, Benjamin. At the time, they had just launched Assembly Coffee, and I was seeking ways to enhance the coffee and tea service at the restaurant where I worked. From our very first conversation, I knew these two understood exactly what we aimed to achieve. Their passion for coffee, coupled with their genuine, easy-going nature, made it clear that this partnership would be special.

Reflecting on an old boss’s advice, “There are no friends in business,” I’ve always struggled with that notion. Our collaboration with Assembly Coffee proves otherwise—business relationships rooted in friendship and mutual respect can thrive and create remarkable experiences.

The Evolution of Coffee Culture —

Ten years ago, coffee and tea were often afterthoughts in restaurants. Phrases like, “It’s just a coffee,” were common, with little regard for the origin, preparation, or quality of the brew. As someone passionate about hospitality, this indifference was disheartening. Coffee and tea are the final touches of a dining experience, and they deserve to be memorable.

Today, the coffee landscape has transformed. Restaurants proudly offer unique blends, single-origin selections, and even in house-roasted beans. Guests are curious and eager to explore. It’s a joy to see pour-over options becoming standard, symbolising a broader appreciation for quality.

More Than Just a Beverage —

But why discuss restaurants when our coffee is served in a retail store? Because appreciation for quality transcends settings. If you value good food and coffee, you likely appreciate craftsmanship in other forms too—be it a well-made jumper or a pair of durable socks. It’s all connected by our curiosity about origins and our desire for quality.

Interestingly, while we’re quick to invest in quality food and drink, we often hesitate with items like clothing. This mindset is shifting, though, as fast fashion gives way to a focus on longevity and ethical production.

The Power of Coffee and Connection —

Coffee is more than a pick-me-up. It’s a cultural cornerstone, energising us, sparking conversations, and fostering community. Tea shares this significance, offering comfort and ritual. Both drinks can turn ordinary moments into meaningful experiences, providing calm amidst life’s chaos.

As inherently social beings, we thrive on connections, often sparked over a simple cup of coffee. These shared moments build relationships and create lasting memories.

But — Why Assembly Coffee?

Founded in 2014 by a dedicated team from Volcano Coffee Works, Assembly Coffee set out to unite the UK’s leading independent specialty coffee shops and restaurants. Their mission: to collaboratively define how a roastery can best serve the specialty coffee community.

Assembly Coffee stands out because of four things —

Customer-Centric Sourcing —They select coffees tailored to their customers’ needs, not just personal preferences.

Data-Driven Offerings — Their selections evolve through continuous feedback and industry insights.

Challenging Industry Norms — They consistently reassess value creation within the coffee sector.

Sustainability — its at the core of Assembly Coffee’s ethos. They are committed to environmentally friendly and economically viable practices, ensuring that their impact on the planet is as positive as the coffee they produce.

Choosing Assembly Coffee was never just a business decision; it was about aligning values, fostering genuine relationships, and sharing a passion for exceptional coffee. Every cup served is a testament to this journey, and we’re thrilled to share it with you.

Recipe Guides for you to try at home —

Brew Recipes —

+ We’ve collated starting recipes for our five favourite brew methods so you can embark on your journey to maximum flavour. These recipes are your starting point for dialling in on the cup that most pleases the palate.

Resting Coffee —

+ It’s important to note that our coffees begin to taste their best once they’ve been rested for at least 10 days after roasting. While they will taste exceptional if you brew them before this, you’ll enjoy them to their full potential if you can wait until they’re nicely rested.

Water —

+ Remember, the water you’re using will have a significant impact on the quality of your cup. Water that’s too hard, or too soft, won’t facilitate effective extraction of flavour. At the very least, no matter the brew method, you need to be using filtered water.