Hot new hangouts…now the kids are back at school
As the kids head back to school, it’s time for a fresh start. Explore the newest cafes and bars on the scene, perfect for embracing a more mindful, laid-back vibe.
It’s been a while since we packed up our Kookai bags, hitched up our skirts and headed back to school to catch up on the gossip we heard via MySpace.
But new term excitement isn’t just for the kids. The arrival of another academic year brings a fresh new start for everyone.
With Brat Summer firmly behind us, it’s all about slowing down. Hanging out in coffee shops and cafes is the new going out.
So here are a few new openings to embrace that “very mindful, very demure” approach to life.
Aera Coffee House
The Japandi (yep, it’s a thing) interiors in this new coffee shop are the perfect aesthetic for a ‘back to work’ mindset.
With a neutral colour palette and use of natural materials, Aera blends elements of Japanese and Scandinavian design philosophies.
Located on the ground floor of Enclave, the tallest modular building in Croydon (and apparently, Europe) this speciality coffee shop opened in June with characteristically minimal(ist) fanfare.
In addition to serving up hot drinks (including a range of noteworthy hot chocolates from Kokoa) Aera also has a selection of fragrant teas.
Cradling an infused beverage whilst reading a book – very demure.
21 College Rd, Croydon, CR0 1NN
CUPP Bubble Tea
Struggling to fit in a leisurely break now you’re back to the grind? You can’t pour from an empty cup(p), so make a shorter pit stop here.
There was no sign of Bubble Tea fatigue at CUPP’s August opening – where visitors queued from the early hours to make the most of a free drink for the first 100 customers.
Beware, those on a deadline might be thrown by the (bordering on ridiculous) menu options (including Milk Teas, Fruit Teas, Brown Sugar Teas, Matcha Teas and Mochi Teas) not to mention the array of toppings (from traditional tapioca pearls and grass jelly to popping boba and biscuit) so check out the menu before you get there.
Planning ahead for a seamless drinks order – very demure.
32-34 High St, The Arcade, London, CR0 1YA
Brick Lane Bagel Co
BOXPARK has welcomed another exciting new addition to its bustling food court.
Brick Lane Bagel Co has been inspired by the beigel bakeries that have been operating in East London since the 1800s.
Founded by father and son Stuart and Elliott Hearne, Brick Lane Bagel Co serves up a nostalgic mix of Irish salt beef brisket and oak-smoked salmon alongside their own signature flavours.
Whilst this local branch (which opened in August) can’t compete with Brick Lane’s opening hours, it can deliver direct to your door via the app.
Not needing to traipse across London for a bit of Hot Salt Beef – very demure.
Unit 17, BOXPARK, 99 George St, Croydon CR0 1LD
Trickle
This (much anticipated) new arrival from Bart & Taylor (the duo behind Fern and Mr Fox) opened in August.
Located on the ground floor of No. 26 (one of the many fancy residential buildings by East Croydon station) Trickle was named in reference to its taps.
These 24 pipelines (surely should have been 26?!) serve up beer, cocktails and wine until around midnight (most of the week) but bottled wine and stirred cocktails are also available.
The outdoor terrace (complete with chic fringed parasols) is flanked by views of Croydon’s newest (and tallest) architectural offerings.
Sipping a Paloma whilst watching the neighbourhood’s newest residents pass by – very demure
26 Dingwall Rd, Croydon, CR0 9XF
Hearty Kitchen Coffee
This healthy(ish) coffee shop actually opened back in April, but since it’s located in the centre of town and within the F45 gym, it’s a great hangout for those getting serious about their health goals.
The porridge menu (in keeping with the café’s name) ensures a hearty start to the day – with the Utterly Banutty proving a firm favourite.
Those looking for a post-workout lunchtime refuel will find plenty of options in the sandwich menu – and can go ‘Double Decker’ if in need of an extra carb fix.
Nibbling on a falafel (with yogurt and mint) sandwich whilst wearing Lululemon sportswear – very demure.
70 High St, Croydon, CR0 1NA
