BAR
TON
CAF FEI NE & M OT O R CY CLE S : FINDING HEAVEN AT STEELTOWN GARAGE COMPANY
JAM
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124
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HAMILTON
BY CHRIS TIESSEN ‘This is the spot I’ve been waiting for someone
large wooden countertop. A small mountain
to create,’ I murmur reverently to TOQUE
of shiny black espresso mugs – many of
Partner Cai Sepulis when we step through an
which are emblazoned with the tagline ‘Death
admittedly unremarkable doorway off Barton
Before Decaf’ – are stacked on this workhorse
Street in Hamilton. And into my personal
of a machine. Vintage motorcycle helmets are
heaven. I stop in the entrance and breathe in
paraded on the wall behind it. The soul of the
rich scents of coffee, and notes of some of my
joint. An experienced barista deftly prepares
other favourite smells – conditioned leather
espresso-based drinks – americanos, lattes,
and, yes, motor oil. All together they produce
cappuccinos – for a handful of folks gathered
an intoxicating aroma. Of comfort. And
at the counter. Folks who, I must say, all
nostalgia. And aspiration. ‘If our magazine
look to be straight out of a Herschel Supply
was bricks and mortar,’ I continue, ‘this would
catalog. Or Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Or TOQUE
be it.’ Cai nods in agreement. ‘This is it,’ I
Magazine, for that matter. I revel in the
add, a bit quieter this time, and in a state of
unanticipated familiarity.
reverie.
A restored 1976 Honda cb750 Super Sport
To our right, a gorgeous turquoise La
motorcycle is positioned centre stage. This
Marzocco espresso machine dominates a
beast, a perfect blend of patina’d original
