When exploring a new city out on tour, there may come a time when you’ll need a caffeine injection. And as every coffee-lover knows, there’s nothing worse than a bad cup. Here’s a list of great spots where you’ll find respite from the hustle and bustle; places where they don’t just appreciate how important good coffee is but where you’ll be able to rest those weary rambler’s bones and see enjoy a pleasant corner of the city too.
Committed to making the best coffee in the city, they’re serious about coffee at The Barn. The Barn Roastery is an experience, and you could be forgiven for thinking that you’re in a lab rather than a coffee shop. All the beans are sustainable and traceable, sourced from small farms before being roasted in-house. The roastery is not the place to spend an afternoon though; certainly not the place to bring out the old laptop. So once you’ve got your fix and witnessed German precision at work on a cup of coffee, make your way to the café for a more laid-back vibe, and treat yourself to a home-made cake while you’re there.
Luckily the French have a close relationship with their coffee, and you’re never far from a café. It’s a standard part of the morning routine, and they don’t mess around. Ordering a simple ‘café’ will get you a shot of espresso, so be sure to specify exactly what it is you’re after. Nonetheless, when you’ve done the typical ‘café thing’ and you’re looking for an alternative, Merci is the place. As part of a luxury design / interior store, the café is situated in what looks like a library. Grab a little bite (boiled egg on toast does the trick) with your coffee and you’ll be refuelled and ready for action in no time. And Boulevard Beaumarchais is a great place to get off the well-trod tourist routes. There are loads of other boutiques in the area to explore once you’ve seen the famous sights.
It can sometimes be difficult to know where to go in London; inevitably one ends up walking along Regent Street, longing for something other lousy chains. And that’s why F&W is brilliant. Located in Soho, you can see the famous sights, then pop into this bustling little gem of a coffee shop for a coffee made by very well-trained baristas. They take their craft seriously here, so expect good quality. The food’s simple but good too! Grab a newspaper from the rack and settle in.
Unlike most ‘coffee shops’ in Amsterdam, the only high you’ll be getting here is from caffeine. This branch on Van Baerlestraat in the Museum Quarter has a peaceful back patio. This is the place for an economical breakfast or lunch snack; perfect for resting those legs and recharging after wondering around the museums.
If you haven’t found your hidden gems, join us on a tour of Europe and we can help you in your quest! Let’s find the perfect coffee!!