Astoria, Astoria Arrivals, Coffee
Apr 29, 2014

Astoria Arrivals – Kinship Coffee Cooperative

About a month ago, we got a bunch of tweets and emails from readers asking if we knew anything about the Kinship Coffee Cooperative, a new spot occupying a storefront (…)

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A very tasty latte at Kinship Coffee Cooperative.

About a month ago, we got a bunch of tweets and emails from readers asking if we knew anything about the Kinship Coffee Cooperative, a new spot occupying a storefront on Steinway Street near 30th Ave. We did a little research ourselves, then reached out to the owners and were delighted to find a time to stop by and see what is up with Kinship. It was a delight to chat with them and learn about their plans, which are very exciting!

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Loving these fun lights!

Kinship Coffee Cooperative is owned and run by Stanley Rivera and Ashley Wood-Rivera, who have lived here in Astoria for a number of years. They are originally from Iowa, where they met, and they really love coffee. Stanley has experience in the restaurant and bar industry, and Ashley works in fashion. They are really excited and proud to open up Kinship here in Astoria, a neighborhood they love. They considered perhaps moving and opening their business in Brooklyn, but Astoria kept reeling them back and they’re very happy to be here.

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Gorgeous green glazed terracotta tiles. The green glaze is somewhat rare.

The Kinship space is very comfortable and clean, combining a bit of funky with repurposed materials they got at Build It Green, including the green glazed terra cotta roofing tiles and the big wooden beams used for for bar tables along the perimeter.

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Beams from Build It Green.

The round wooden table in the center of the room will no doubt be an attraction for people meeting up to hang out or to collaborate on projects together, since it lends itself so well to convivial exchange.

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The awesome circular table.

They’ll be offering a variety of beans—both for the coffee prepared there and that which you’d like to take home.

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Beans of varying kinds to take home.

They plan to stock beans from roasters like Stumptown (NYC/Portland), Sight Glass (SF), and Ceremony (Annapolis, MD). No doubt more roasters will cycle in and out, since they are truly keen on learning what their customers want at the cafe. Pastries will also be available, including the amazing almond croissant from Balthazar, muffins from Blue Sky Bakery, and a few other local bakeries. Look forward to vegan and gluten-free treats, too!

Stanley and Ashley hope to hold events at Kinship, from monthly cuppings to how-to-brew events. Some coffee, as well as how it’s ground, does really well as espresso, some is better in a French press, and you’ll get to learn more secrets to better brewing at their events. Also, stay tuned for their coffee subscription club, where you’ll have an opportunity to try new and different coffee beans.

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The Synesso espresso machine.

And on the subject of different brewing methods, they plan to serve their coffee prepared as espresso drinks (made with their Synesso espresso machine), pour overs, and yes, drip coffee—good drip coffee is hard to find in Astoria, so we’ll be happy to see good quality drip coffee on the map. Cold brew coffee will also be available, perfect as summer’s devil heat is just over the horizon.

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Where the magic happens.

For those that want to stop by and do a little work while enjoying their cup of joe, know that there will be free wifi (password enabled) but no plugs. Hours will be 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. We expect they’ll open in early May, perhaps even this weekend! Their digital presence is in process, so look for a new website and social media in the near future.

We’re thrilled with the arrival of Kinship Coffee Cooperative and look forward to great things from them!

Kinship Coffee Coop, 30-05 Steinway Street, Astoria, NY 11103

About Meg Cotner

Meg Cotner was trained as a harpsichordist and now works as a freelance writer and editor. She is the author of "Food Lovers' Guide to Queens," and is a skilled and avid home cook, baker, and preserver.

7 Comments

Michelle

so exciting! love having a cute little coffee shop with friendly baristas to go to in this neighborhood :)

Reply
Margaret

I was in there today (trying to (procrastinating in a new environment) write a paper)- coffee was good, baristas were chill- they don’t take card though :/

Reply
Kevin

Was there today. Good vibe, good music good coffee and nice guy. Positive addition for 30th and Steinway.

Reply
GersonK

They mean it in the sense that if you want to give them money in exchange for coffee, they’ll probably be cooperative with you.

Reply

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