Emily B.
Yelp
Ezra & Gil popped up at the same time as so many other coffee shops and places called Something & Something, so when Jess D suggested meeting there my response was 'sure!' and then straight to the Yelp app to figure out which one it was. For those still wondering, it's on the corner of Newton Street and Hilton Street and has entrances on both streets.
It's very nice inside, bright and airy and not at all cramped, which I appreciate. The decor is nothing new or particularly interesting for the Northern Quarter but it looks good all the same.
The food menu looked nice, with all the sourdough and avocado that you'd expect, and also some more interesting options such as aubergine pesto and sweet potato sandwich, and black rice and broccoli salad. I was here for cake though so up I went to investigate. It was a good cake selection including muffins, various cake loaves (banana, pumpkin, lemon, pear & ginger), brownies, caramel shortbread, brownies etc. There was a gluten free option and a vegan option.
I copied Jess and got the warm banana bread with Nutella, because really, once you've seen that why would you choose anything else? I ordered a flat white to go with it and helped myself to some of the fruit infused water on offer.
The banana bread was really nice and the addition of Nutella was delightfully indulgent. Banana bread and other cake loaves always seem that bit more satisfying than other cakes, brownies etc. The coffee was nice - small, strong and slightly (naturally) sweet, all of which I enjoy.
I was also glad to see they offer iced coffee. I hate places that are too snobby to offer it, or think it's not real coffee etc. In hot weather I love an iced coffee and if I can't find it elsewhere I have no qualms going to Costa, so it makes perfect sense for independents to offer it. I'm now looking forward to a hot day so I can treat myself.
Ezra & Gil also have a little shop. It's a nice idea but I couldn't really figure out why you'd get any of it there rather than elsewhere. I also wasn't keen on the fact that you're advised to help yourself to fruit & veg and *then* ask the staff for the price. Price your produce on the shelf, please.
Overall I like Ezra & Gil a lot and I'll be back.