Despite its name and sign out front, this hasn’t been around since 1986 but is, in fact, a fairly recent addition to the Cleveland Street strip of eateries and cafes. On first inspection, all signs point to it being another modern, wood and white wall cafe. But does it live up to first impressions?

Slightly misleading name for the relatively new cafe

Coffee – 2/5 

It might look like a barista-centric, Antipodean-style coffee shop, but sadly the coffee was a big letdown. It even uses Allpress coffee, but it’s sadly lost under an avalanche of foamy milk and a topping of chocolate. The single espresso was weak and tasteless. This is very much a style of substance issue – just because you make it look like a good coffee shop and bring in good coffee, you still need to make it right.

Coffee established that morning

Atmosphere – 4/5

As mentioned they have now gone for what can only be described as the classic style. White walls, pale woods and, well that’s it. However, it works and it’s has a nice friendly vibe. There are a few seats out front which are great for people spotting, especially around lunch time when all the office works queue up at the neighbouring venues.

The stacked paper cups are a nice touch

Food – 2/4

A good selection of sandwiches in baps, sourdough or focaccia, a choice of salmon, chicken or tuna salads, salmon or eggs for breakfast and the usual pastries. Nothing out of this world but a decent selection and it all looked fresh.

A good selection of salads

Service – 3/3

Friendly and fast. Coffee was brought to my table and the queue moved quickly.

Extras – 0/3 

Nothing I could see and with no website currently, then I doubt there’s much on offer.

Summary – 11/20

As mentioned, this is style over substance. I good place to grab a quick bite but until they get a decent barista in, give the coffee a miss.

Details

108 Cleveland Street,

Fitzrovia

W1T6NY

Twiiter: @CoffeeEst1

Facebook: facebook.com/CoffeeEstablishmentUK