Christophe F.
Yelp
The visit that almost didn't happen became true and it was a real treat. For three months prior to my stopover in London I looked at the Rapha site, the blogs, the photos and reviews from this location. As an avid cyclist and Rapha fan, I had to visit the place. Unfortunately it almost didn't happen as for some crazy reason the store was scheduled to close for renovations on January 6 (I was in London from January 7). Fortunately the stars aligned and the store remained open during my stay here.
We'll, what can I say about the place? If you're a Rapha fan but above all, if you're a cycling fan, stopping by is not an option... It's mandatory!
The store is well located in Soho, just a few short minutes walk from Piccadilly Circus. The storefront is stunning and the inside is no different (although I have to admit the place is much smaller than I anticipated).
As soon as you walk in you'll be greeted by Rapha goodness all around you. Plus you'll notice the beautiful bikes, artwork, tvs showing cycling events and so on. To the right of the entrance is the coffee shop. I had an espresso and it was extremely good and strong.
The staff at the coffee side was really nice but my impression of the staff working at the clothing side was somewhat different. I truly believe they could have been a little nicer, especially when I mentioned about the excitement of being there and how happy I was that the store was open.
I bought a couple of goodies (got lucky with the place still being on sale) and waited for my espresso by the stools facing the window while flipping through the pages of all the amazing books and magazines available.
The only reason the place doesn't get a five star is because of the customer service. I find it interesting to see that some people working with the public lack some of the simplest yet more important qualities: courtesy and kindness. Since we all have good and bad days and I'm reviewing the place based on a single visit, I won't let this detail spoil what was ultimately an amazing experience.
Go visit the place and get out there on your bike already!