A detour in Epsom: Muffin Break

This is a bit of a derailment, considering we aren't in Sheffield at the moment, but its distinctly possible this place will open up in the Steel City sometime with branches already in Derby and Doncaster, and two in Nottingham - watch that space for a slight twist on the blog in the future...

It caught our eye immediately, being new in a place i grew up, with smart decor and beautifully presented food in the counter area.  A selection of wraps looked extremely inviting, with soup, quiches and of course cakes and MUFFINS!  I got the impression that the selections would change occasionally, rather than usual chain fare of having the same thing everywhere every time.

Being in a shopping centre, this place suffered from no windows, though there was free wifi provided by The Cloud and comfy seats. There were also loads of staff milling around - perhaps too many? - but they were all friendly and greeted on arrival and departure.

We each went for a coffee and a muffin.  I had a very well sized caramel latte which I enjoyed, and Nicky his usual double espresso.  The crema was to his satisfaction but he did find the coffee slightly bitter, not sure if it was burnt or just the blend? Who knows...

The muffins however were delicious.  I had a banana chic chip, and Nicky an apple cinnamon.  Both were really fluffy, and very tasty, reminding us of South African chain Mugg & Bean (though with normal sized portions!!). Perhaps not too surprising as evidently this chain has its origins in Australia, and it definitely felt different to the usual US- inspired UK offerings.

Definitely one to try if you come across a branch!

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!!