Dallas-based Ascension Coffee is prepping to set up its first shop in East Dallas.
Located at 9353 Garland Rd near its intersection with Buckner Blvd., the growing craft café chain will move into the former home of White Rock Community Church.
Founded in 2012 by restaurateur Russell Hayward, Ascension is an Australian-style coffee shop that serves craft beverages, wine and simple European-café inspired food items.
Hayward, who grew up in Sydney, Australia, was used to sitting around a big table with family, friends, fresh food, and friendly banter during mealtimes. Upon coming to the States, he struggled to find a coffee shop with a warm, communal environment that also offered a chef-driven food menu. After a year of researching and developing the concept, Hayward opened the first Ascension in Dallas’s Design District.
Recently named Best Coffee Shop by the Dallas Observer, Ascension Coffee now has five other locations in Dallas’s Uptown/Crescent Court, Addison, Cypress Waters in Coppell, Frisco and Fort Worth.
While Hayward is still very much involved with Ascension, Bill Schaffler joined the brand as president in 2019.
Ascension uses award-winning, small-batch coffees that are “sourced globally, roasted locally and carefully poured” by the brand’s dedicated team members. Craft coffee drinks include espresso, cappuccino, macchiato, Americano and keto. There’s also classic teas, hot chocolate, fresh juice, chilled frappes and smoothies, cold brews and lattes.
Wine is served all day. Classic cocktails – mimosa, bloody Mary, paloma – are also offered.
Food-wise, there’s all-day brekky featuring such items as espresso cruffins – a croissant-muffin hybrid, fresh-baked bagels, yogurt bowls, and omelettes. Lunch offerings include salads, bowls and craft sammies like the Wagyu beef reuben and brunch burger – made with white cheddar, caramelized onion, house pickle, arugula, spicy ranch and potato crisps.
