Summer in Sydney just got a whole lot cooler. If you’ve been looking for the perfect way to beat the heat while getting your caffeine fix, Nespresso has the answer.
This February, the coffee giant is transforming the first level of its Pitt Street Boutique into an immersive “Iced Coffee Playground.” It’s a space designed for discovery, indulgence, and refreshing vibes, offering coffee lovers a chance to press play on summer fun.
Whether you’re a dedicated espresso drinker or just love a good cold brew, the Nespresso Lab is the place to be on Saturdays. Here is everything you need to know about this exciting activation and how you can get involved.
The Nespresso Lab: A Summer Sanctuary
Located in the heart of the CBD, the Nespresso Lab is hosting a series of free events that redefine the coffee break. Every Saturday in February from 10 am to 2 pm, the space will come alive with the sights, sounds, and tastes of summer.
This isn’t just about grabbing a quick cup of coffee. It’s an experience designed for a new generation of coffee drinkers who are swapping late nights for meaningful morning rituals. The “Happy Hour” series blends complimentary sips, delicious eats, and live beats to create the ultimate daytime hangout.
Visitors can expect bold iced coffee recipes inspired by Nespresso’s Made for Ice collection. Limited-edition flavours like Pistachio Vanilla and Coconut Vanilla will take centre stage, alongside crowd favourites like the Ice Leggero.
Sips, Sweets, and Beats: What’s on the Menu?
Nespresso has pulled out all the stops, partnering with some of Australia’s most beloved taste innovators to create a menu that screams summer indulgence.
Gelato Messina is on board to provide mouth-watering gelato pairings, while the creative minds at Shadow Baking are serving up exclusive baked treats. To top it off, acclaimed mixologists Matt Whiley and Luke Whearty have crafted a refreshing mocktail menu to keep things cool.
The atmosphere will be buzzing with energy, thanks to a rotating line-up of hot Aussie DJ talent setting the soundtrack each week. Plus, arcade-style games and giveaways will add a touch of 90s nostalgia to the mix.
Here is the full line-up for the month:
Saturday 7 February
- Sips: Classic Iced Latte
- Eats: Pistachio & Vanilla Affogatos by Nespresso x Messina
- Beats: DJ Karina Enever & Running Touch
Saturday 14 February
- Sips: Nespresso Mocha Colada
- Eats: Milk Chocolate and Coconut Tart by Shadow Baking
- Beats: DJs Tigerlilly & Ebony Boadu
Saturday 21 February
- Sips: Nespresso Salted Coconut Iced Latte
- Eats: Caramel Custard Gelato with Whipped Cream & Cocoa Nib Praline by Messina
- Beats: DJs Kinder & Thandi Phoenix
Saturday 28 February
- Sips: Mocktail by mixologists Matt Whiley & Luke Whearty
- Eats: Vanilla and Caramel Pain Swiss by Shadow Baking
- Beats: DJ Young Franco & Yes Boone
Perfectly Paired Flavours
The collaboration between Nespresso, Messina, and Shadow Baking is a match made in heaven. Tom Mitchell, Gelato Messina Exec Chef and Shadow Baking Owner, shared his excitement about the menu.
“At Messina and Shadow, we are constantly creating and testing new menu ideas. Pistachio and vanilla are two of our most loved flavours at the moment, so we know what guests will be enjoying is going to be a hit. We have eaten a lot of them in the testing phase!” he says.
The focus on high-quality ingredients and innovative pairings ensures that every visit to the Nespresso Lab will be a treat for the taste buds.
Changing Coffee Culture in Australia
This event series comes at a time when Australia’s coffee culture is evolving. Research commissioned by Nespresso reveals that 59% of Australians are seeking more ‘in real life’ social occasions this summer.
Interestingly, coffee has emerged as the country’s social drink of choice (40%), surpassing water, beer, and wine. The data also shows that 71% of Aussies are making coffee at home, with many doing so to save money.
Monique Dean, Nespresso Coffee Ambassador, explains how the event taps into these trends.
“We know coffee is integral to Australia’s social fabric, and in recent years, iced coffee has been growing in popularity. The Happy Hour series at The Nespresso Lab allows visitors to explore the quality and versatility of Nespresso’s Made for Ice range in a vibrant and social context that is true to how they want to experience it this summer – as a fun moment of indulgence, enjoyed with friends. The best part is that all the coffee recipes can be easily recreated at home so the party can continue.”
Taking the Fun Nationwide
If you can’t make it to Sydney, don’t worry. Nespresso is sharing the summer love across the country.
Nespresso x Messina Affogato Stations will be popping up at 14 Nespresso Boutiques on select Saturdays in March between 11 am – 2 pm. Shoppers can enjoy complimentary Pistachio & Vanilla flavoured affogatos while browsing for their favourite pods.
Participating Locations:
- 7 March: Chatswood Chase, Chadstone, Booragoon, Adelaide
- 14 March: Canberra, Bondi Junction, Highpoint, Chermside, Karrinyup
- 21 March: Miranda, Emporium
- 28 March: Castle Hill, Doncaster, Robina
How to Join the Fun
Ready to dive into the Iced Coffee Playground? Here are the details you need:
- Where: Nespresso Lab, Level 1, Nespresso Pitt Street Boutique, Sydney.
- When: Saturdays in February (7, 14, 21, 28) from 10 am – 2 pm.
- Entry: Free! No tickets are required, but entry is on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Note: The venue has limited capacity, so arrive early to avoid disappointment. Entry is restricted to those aged 18 and over.
Whether you’re looking for a new coffee recipe to try at home or just want a fun Saturday activity, Nespresso’s Iced Coffee Playground is the perfect way to celebrate summer.