In a hidden alleyway off one Nottingham high street, you’ll find a much-loved cafe with variety and low prices you just can’t complain about. Community reporter Keimae Blake has visited…
Cheap and cheerful with chirpy staff is how I’d describe The Coffee Shop on Banks Yard in Bulwell. With staff having a laugh amongst themselves and taking the time to engage with their customers, this cafe has a homely and snug atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve been there before.
After recently visiting Banks Yard to speak with shop owners about how business is going for them, I did have a chat with the owner of The Coffee Shop but with no time for lunch or a cuppa, my stay was cut short. I knew I had to go back.
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With a bit more time to spare one day, one of the cafe’s all-day breakfasts sounded like something I couldn’t say no to. On arrival, the outdoor seating at the front was empty with one mug sitting lonely on one of the tables.
I thought inside might be as quiet but I was wrong. Customers clutched on to their cups as staff rattled behind the counter, taking orders and making food.
Nearly all the tables that morning in the cafe were full but luckily for me, I spotted one by the window - perfect for me to tuck into my breakfast. The menu on a chalkboard had so much that you could have for breakfast, lunch or dinner - but I went for a full English breakfast (with no beans) and a hot chocolate all for just £6.95.
If you’re not as hungry as I was, a cup of tea is just £1.20 here, cobs starting from just £2.60 and cheese on toast for £1.60. Bargain.
After placing my order, I sat down and in no time, my hot chocolate was placed in front of me. As people started to come in, the cafe was getting busier - and with not that many tables spare, I wondered how many customers would brave the cold and sit outside.
My hot chocolate was red hot and steaming and as I sat sipping on it, I think I was sitting in one couple's regular spot as they both headed to find somewhere else to sit. With a smile, one waiter had put my breakfast on to the wooden table and it looked like a treat.
Two sausages, a slice of toast, a slice of fried bread, bacon, mushrooms, tomatoes and a hash brown. Glorious.
My fried toast was golden and crispy as were my hashbrowns and you could hear the satisfying crunch as I dug in. I had what seemed like a lot of well cooked bacon (I’m not complaining!) and two sausages to dip into my egg and tomato.
As liking mushrooms is a bit unpopular, especially on an English breakfast, I think it’s always a great addition. All in all, my breakfast was 10/10.
From the food to my hot chocolate that could’ve put me to sleep, The Coffee Shop is most definitely worth visiting.
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