Nicola C.
Yelp
Now, this place is swish.
Think authentic Italian espresso bar; smart and sophisticated. Think fresh, delicious sandwiches and baked treats. And of course, coffee. I'll be honest, I can't speak for the coffee. - I'm just not a caffeine kid. That's not to say I don't enjoy a high quality cup of the stuff. But when faced with the option, I'll always pick tea. Herbal, breakfast, bubble. I love it all and I relish a chai latte. Always. So whilst coffee just ain't my thang, the smell of the fresh beans when I arrived was definitely a pleasing one.
Despite me being the only person in when I arrived, there was a general busy city feel. The staff were charming and friendly, ensuring I felt welcome and was attended to. It wasn't long before a steady stream of customers were popping in and out and I could indulge in some mid-afternoon people-watching. So whilst Laboratorio Espresso is definitely a coffee lovers' hotspot, I didn't feel at all out of place or unwelcome. There's not a sniff of pretentiousness. - Just passion for good coffee (it sure smelt good!) and food.
Boy, oh, boy was the food good! My chicken, mozzarella and rocket toasted sandwich was the kind of sandwich you dream about for days after, the kind you wished would last forever. The chicken was breadcrumbed, packed full of flavour and perfectly tender. Cower in fear, sandwiches everywhere; you've a lot to live up to after that incredibly tasty bread on bread rendition.
Perfect chai latte. Perfect sandwich. Perfect service.
With a little hustle and bustle thrown in for good measure.
People-watching's never been better.