Offering farm-to-cup coffee and a mouthwatering menu, a new must-visit top has been added to the buzzing WestBend development of Fort Worth.

Delighting all those that enjoy a cuppa joe in a relaxed setting, Ascension Coffee opened this month, overlooking that local mecca for walkers, cyclists and runner, Trinity Trails.

Restaurateur and owner Russell Hayward opened the original Ascension in Dallas in 2012, and several other locations have sprung up around DFW since. Hayward wanted to bring a slice of his native Australia, as well as European-style café concepts, to the States, offering great coffee, an inviting, familial atmosphere, and a chef-driven menu inspired by his global travels. Ascension’s award-winning coffee is made from coffee beans sourced from Rwanda, Brazil, Colombia, Peru and Papua New Guinea among other locations, and roasted locally. Hayward and the team have made impactful efforts to collaborate with communities around the world, including ones from post-crisis countries.

Ascension did not disappoint –not only did it offer picturesque riverside, umbrella-covered patio seating, but the menu and coffee were exceptional, including the tasty Kyoto-style cold brew, the doki-doki.

What’s on offer? What’s not on offer would be easier to answer with the array of cold brews, pour-overs, lattes, and craft coffee served hot or iced. And the list continues, with premium teas, iced tea, as well as wines beer, and frozen drinks. Pair your drink with a scrumptious starter, including Australian hand pies, scones, croissants, and other pastries from local Black Rooster Bakery.

If you’re looking for a sweet finish, try their crumbly coffee cake, or very pumpkin-y muffin. If you’re craving an item from their all-day breakfast (or “brekky” as an Aussie would say) menu, you have your choice of savory or sweet items, including a Bacon and Leek Frittata, Ricotta Souffle, and Almond-Coconut Granola among other selections.

For something truly decadent, try the Wagyu Pastrami Hash which incorporates buttery, melt-in-the mouth beef from local A Bar N Ranch, and a rich, sunny side up egg.  Enjoy their Pane Aria Benedict, with two perfect poached eggs perched on black forest ham, Swiss cheese, and smothered in the best hollandaise sauce in town.

The so-called “community bites” include Lamb Meatballs bathed in a Moroccan tomato sauce, tried-and-true Flatbreads like their caprese, or a Meat and Cheese board.  Sample their craft sammies (sandwich) trays including a coffee-rubbed steak on ciabatta, or more vegetable-laden bowls and salads, including a Tuscan Kale Salad, and the Hippie Bowl with ancient grains, mushrooms and beets.

In addition to the outstanding food, the wait staff is also personable and friendly, making welcome suggestions and sharing knowledge of their coffee; service was swift. Overall, it was a pleasant and tranquil experience; cyclists, dog-walkers and families strolled along the trail, giving sidewise glances at the plates of warm food on the tables.

WestBend’s newcomer offers dine-in options with safety in mind, as well as delivery and to-go orders. You can also subscribe to a monthly bag of coffee beans, buy whole ones, gift and more through Ascension’s shop. A great reminder of a delicious meal, set in a fabulous locale!

Ascension Coffee: 1751 River Run, Suite 151, Fort Worth, TX 76107

Cover photo courtesy Ascension Coffee

N.L.Thi-Hamrick is devoted to all things that bring joy: good food, writing freely, lots of smiles,
and pursuing things that make you feel worthwhile.