Saturday 3 August 2013

Amici & Bici

This new coffee shop on Abbeydale Road combines a couple of things we both really enjoy, coffee and cycling.

There is ample cycle parking, though its not really on any cycling route we particularly frequent, though it could be incorporated.  Abbeydale sadly isn't the most cycling friendly road at that end, but  hardly the end of the world.  You can also trade your helmet for a bicycle lock to borrow, which is very welcome if you've been for a nice long ride on your 'fun' bike!



On this occasion however we drove, taking a free space on the side road that the coffee shop corners with.

The premises are very bright and airy, due to the many windows which creates a really nice atmosphere.  Decoration is cycling based, with some lovely paintings, and a large flatscreen TV which we imagine will show races that are televised.  Definitely one to check out on race day.  For us on this random Thursday afternoon though it felt a little quiet; perhaps the owners could investigate services showing streams or recaps of previous races, or if hooked up to a sky+ service, record a whole bunch of races from now to have running in the background (though we are uncertain if any special licence would be required for this).  Alternatively, a bit of music would be rather nice.

Of note the whole place felt cycle friendly and, especially with plentiful outdoor seating, I wouldn't feel bad rolling up in sweaty Lycra.  The seats are easily cleaned!  There is also free wifi, and loads of power outlets we noted, so a good place to sit for an afternoon doing work.

Onto the coffee then. Service was excellent and friendly, and a whole bottle of tap water was brought to our table with our drinks - much appreciated.  Nicky rated his espresso as nice though not among the best he's had, and I quite enjoyed my latte.  Both were presented very nicely in cycling themed cups.


We also each chose a sandwich from their blackboard menu.  I suspect they may change their offerings fairly often, as there were only a few choices, but I'm sure something for everyone as I was very excited about my pesto, mozzarella and Parma ham offering.



As you can see you get excellent value for money with the food, though on the downside we couldn't fit in cake.  No gluten free options really (so I needed to watch my other choices that day), but it was worth it.  We both really enjoyed our food.

We will be coming back again before too long for sure, I think I will push for a trip after a cycle so that we can have some cake next time, and maybe even a glass of what looked to be delicious freshly squeezed orange juice!!

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