A new specialty coffee shop, The Highwayman, has officially opened its doors in East Belfast. Located on Upper Newtownards Road in Ballyhackamore, the shop is the brainchild of 26-year-old coffee enthusiast Josh Bell.
The Bangor native’s latest venture is inspired by his family history and features a unique Texan cowboy twist. Bell has been passionate about coffee since his teenage years. At 19, he walked into his first coffee shop and was immediately captivated by the diverse flavors and aromas of coffee beans from around the world.
“The excitement of tasting different coffee profiles from various countries was mind-blowing, and it still is today,” said Josh. “Working in numerous coffee shops over the years deepened my understanding of coffee, from bean sourcing to brewing techniques.”
Josh’s journey in the coffee world began with the opening of Coffee Rustler in Bangor in 2022. Recognizing a gap in the market for high-quality coffee, he created a space where coffee would be the main focus. Inspired by his grandfather’s farming heritage, Josh partnered with his friend, illustrator Louis Nelson, to design a brand identity that blends rustic charm with modern aesthetics.
“We wanted to be a coffee haven, where the sole focus is on coffee,” Josh explained. “By eliminating food service, we can dedicate our full attention to crafting the perfect cup.”
The Highwayman is dog-friendly and aims to offer an exceptional coffee experience. “The area around Campbell College is perfect for a high-quality coffee shop. We’re committed to showcasing the finest coffee from both local and international roasters, without distractions,” Josh said. “This way, we can focus entirely on perfecting every cup we serve.”
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