A tentative ‘yes’ is the short answer, and the best for me
was 6/8 Kafé. Located in the north of the city centre (like much of the
better stuff, I noticed) it skims the shoppers’ precinct to benefit from
footfall, as well as from those in the know.
My long black was fantastic – not too hot, strong, slightly
viscous and with a great crème. Beans were courtesy of Has Bean, which of late
has been breaking up the Monmouth/Climpson/Square Mile cartel quite vigorously.
The interior is comfy enough, with lots of wifi ponces making the most of it,
but space is at a premium. Perhaps the sign proclaiming it among the UK’s 50
best indie coffee shops is really pulling them in. Overall, a great little
place you’d be chuffed to have nearby.
Onwards to Urban Coffee, another outlet a little further
towards the Jewellery Quarter which seems to have proliferated in Brum with a
few outlets dotted about. This place has a characterful mural, a beautiful antique
steampunk espresso machine and plenty of seating. Food selection is very limited however
(breakfast offers toast or porridge, on weekends!) which was a shame as it’s
easily large enough and the niche is there for a modern, cosmopolitan brunch
menu.
My Americano here was a bit heavy on the volume and thus not
strong enough. Perhaps my fault for not ordering a long black – in the best of
coffee shops, they will execute different coffees on this distinction.
Get it on the board, guys.
And so in pursuit of brunch, we found ourselves next door at
Home. This is a deli-cum-farm shop vibe, with lots of twee decorations and
crates of fruit and veg. Decent coffee though (Urban’s Americano left this
hungover pig with a hankering for more caffeine) and the bacon roll was spot
on.
You'll find the Bennies in Urban's JQ place - they don't have a kitchen to cook them in Church Street! Also highly recommend Brewsmiths for breakfast (& coffee) - the best value in town. Few more coffee shops for you to try too!
ReplyDeletePancakes and french toast remain elusive in Brum though.
I see - somebody did tell me on Twitter Urban did hot food! Oh well, will have to revisit. Thanks for the tips, and the comment.
ReplyDeleteThey all look like lovely venues.
ReplyDelete