Shevin T.
Yelp
Just about a month old, By the Bridge is Haggerston's newest coffee shop. While there's loads of competition in the area, what makes this cafe stand out is its location right on Regent's Canal, by the bridge crossing Kingsland Road (as the name suggests...). The space is small but cute, with some tables and chairs inside and a few al fresco as well. The best seat in the house is definitely the table next to the window overlooking the canal, but not surprisingly this one always seems to be taken.
I have yet to try their coffee, but both my flatmate and my friend (who tried a latte and a cappuccino, respectively) found their drinks to be just mediocre. I enjoyed my vanilla chai latte, however, which was perfectly sweet and foamy. The usual coffee shop brownies and cookies are available, but if they offered a greater selection of food (even just sandwiches) I would award them another star. Regardless, due to its coziness factor, proximity to my flat, and my love of new independent businesses popping up in the area, I'm sure to return soon.
Oh and one last thing -- make sure to check out the sign on the door to the toilets :-)