Welcome back to the Beans and More Coffee Podcast! In our 13th episode, we have the pleasure of visiting a unique location that combines the comforts of a local pub with the warmth of a coffee bar. Nestled in the heart of Ballivor, County Meath, JMC’s Coffee is housed within McLaughlin’s Pub and is run by the dynamic duo, Joe and Rachel. Their story is one of community, passion for coffee, and heartwarming moments that make this episode a must-listen.

A Fusion of Pub and Coffee Culture

Joe, the owner of McLaughlin’s Pub, has been at the helm of this family business for nearly two decades. Seeking a fresh way to attract customers during quieter morning hours, he decided to introduce coffee into the pub—a move that sparked the creation of JMC’s Coffee Bar. What makes this venture special is not just the addition of coffee (courtesy of Greenbean – see Ep. 10: Weapons Grade Coffee) but the way it redefines the traditional pub experience, offering locals a place to meet, relax, and connect beyond the usual pint.

Rachel, the barista, was the perfect fit for this new venture. A former pub employee with a love for customer service, she found herself drawn to the coffee bar after working a remote job that left her missing face-to-face interaction. Joe’s invitation to run the coffee bar allowed her to return to her roots—engaging with people daily and sharing her passion for coffee in a welcoming and community-centered setting.

Creating a Welcoming Space

JMC’s Coffee Bar is not just about serving coffee; it’s about creating a space that feels like home. Joe and Rachel emphasize the importance of community, noting that their coffee bar has become a gathering spot for everyone from local parents and children to tourists passing through Ballivor. Rachel highlights the joy she feels when customers return regularly, including kids ordering “flat whites” and other grown-up drinks—much to the amusement of their parents.

The shop’s design retains the cozy, familiar feel of a pub, but with the added aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The mornings are now filled with lively chatter, whether it’s friends catching up, parents meeting with their children, or regulars popping in for their daily brew. The coffee bar has even attracted those who wouldn’t usually frequent a pub, broadening McLaughlin’s appeal to a wider audience.

The Learning Curve: From Latte Art to Community Building

Rachel discusses her journey to becoming the skilled barista she is today, sharing anecdotes about learning latte art from TikTok and honing her craft through hands-on training. The commitment to quality is evident—Joe and Rachel took the time to carefully select the perfect coffee beans and milk, experimenting with different combinations to create a consistently great cup of coffee.

This dedication to quality is matched by their focus on building a sense of community. They share stories of engaging with international visitors, including Italians and Americans who stumble upon the coffee bar while exploring the area. For Joe and Rachel, it’s these moments of connection that make their work truly rewarding, as they help foster a sense of belonging for both locals and visitors alike.

Embracing Challenges and Celebrating Successes

Like any new venture, JMC’s Coffee Bar faced its share of challenges. Joe and Rachel recount the early days, describing the chaos of navigating a busy counter space and perfecting their workflow. From accidentally knocking over milk jugs to adjusting to the rush of customers, these moments of trial and error have only strengthened their resolve. Despite the occasional blooper, Joe and Rachel’s commitment to customer satisfaction remains unwavering, and these experiences have helped them refine their process and create a warm, welcoming environment.

The Perfect Cup of Coffee: A Labour of Love

For Joe and Rachel, making the perfect cup of coffee goes beyond technique; it’s about infusing every cup with passion and care. Rachel’s artistic background shines through in her latte art, which adds a personal touch that delights customers. She notes how rewarding it is to see someone’s face light up when they receive a beautifully crafted coffee—a small but significant way of making their day a little brighter.

Joe emphasizes the importance of consistency in maintaining quality. He recalls the intensive training sessions where they tasted different combinations, fine-tuning their recipes until they found the perfect balance. It’s this meticulous attention to detail that sets JMC’s Coffee Bar apart and keeps customers coming back for more.

Community Impact and Future Aspirations

Beyond the coffee, JMC’s Coffee Bar is making a tangible impact on the local community. The shop has become a meeting point and Joe and Rachel speak fondly of the new social dynamics the coffee bar has introduced.

Looking ahead, Joe and Rachel are eager to continue growing their coffee community. They’re exploring the possibility of introducing special events, expanding their menu with creative new drinks, and engaging more with their social media followers. As they refine their approach and build on their early successes, their goal remains clear: to keep creating a space that feels like a home away from home.

Conclusion

“A Bar…With Coffee” is more than just a catchy title—it’s a reflection of the innovative spirit behind JMC’s Coffee Bar at McLaughlin’s Pub. Joe and Rachel’s journey showcases how the right mix of passion, creativity, and community focus can transform a traditional pub into a vibrant, multi-purpose space. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast, a pub regular, or just someone looking for a welcoming spot to enjoy a chat and a brew, JMC’s Coffee Bar offers a little something for everyone.

Tune into Episode 13 of the Beans and More Coffee Podcast to hear the full story and get inspired by the community-driven coffee culture thriving in this unique setting.

JMC’s is open Tuesday to Friday 7.30am-3.30pm, and Saturday from 9am-3pm, and is on Instagram and Facebook