As an avid coffee enthusiast, I was excited to try Caffè Nero, which has been around for a couple of decades now. Stepping into the shop feels like entering a comforting oasis due to its warm décor and soft lighting.

I was impressed to learn about their awards, including Coffee Shop Retailer of the Year at the CEE Retail Awards in 2016. They also won Best Store and Best Menu at the Sweets & Coffee Awards in 2017. 

Conor was the barista for the day, and I appreciated his friendliness. His chatty and humorous demeanour added a special touch to my coffee experience.

I got myself a cappuccino, which was lovely. The brew was rich and flavourful, reflecting Conor’s precision and expertise.

Beyond its stellar coffee selection, Caffè Nero also boasts an enticing variety of delicious treats and pastries. My standout fave was their deliciously flaky almond croissant.

Caffè Nero provides reliable Wi-Fi access, making it an ideal spot for catching up on work or enjoying a leisurely afternoon with your laptop. 

I did notice that their prices tend to be slightly higher compared to other coffee chains. 

Also, I found the shop to be a bit noisy, which may not be ideal for those seeking a quieter atmosphere to enjoy their coffee.

Do note that during peak hours, finding a cosy corner to unwind can be challenging, as the store’s limited seating may lead to overcrowding. Arriving early or opting for takeaway could be a workaround.

As an avid bibliophile and coffee hound, I was excited to visit Books and Beans, which combines both of these addictions. Upon entering, the delicious smell of coffee engulfed me, and I was immediately drawn to their stuffy leather chairs.

I was also taken aback by the sheer number of their books! With an extensive collection of over 10,000 books across two floors, I can definitely picture myself spending hours here, sipping coffee and reading literary classics.

Aside from their extensive selection of yummy fair trade coffee, their menu offers a tantalising array of options, ranging from hearty breakfasts to mouthwatering burgers, sandwiches, and wraps, with vegan and gluten-free choices as well!

Their affogato espresso is a must-try, perfectly blending the richness of coffee with the sweetness of ice cream. Additionally, I loved their buttery scones – a perfect accompaniment to any beverage.

For those seeking intellectual stimulation, Books and Beans hosts regular book club and poetry events. These gatherings offer a wonderful opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals and foster a love for literature.

During my visit, I noticed that the service could have been more efficient, as the 5-member staff appeared to be slightly overwhelmed during peak hours. The wait time for my order was longer than expected.

Also, a 10% gratuity is automatically added to the bill, which may not sit well with some customers who prefer to decide on the tip amount themselves.

Corner Tree Cafe is a wonderful Aberdeen gem that welcomed me with open arms. They offer a wide array of brunch, lunch, and afternoon tea options, seven days a week.

Unlike other coffee shops, they also add an exciting touch to the dining experience with their weekly events, including Senior Lunches, AHOY! Brunch Club, and Afternoon Liquor & Graze at the Pier. It seems there’s never a dull moment at this charming spot!

With a commitment to freshness, all of their delectable food is prepared daily. Don’t miss one of my favourites: their freshly baked croissants.

I also indulged in the heavenly combination of fluffy pancakes drizzled with maple syrup and paired with savoury bacon. Their sumptuous flat white was the perfect breakfast accompaniment, leaving me fully satisfied.

Sadly, I experienced a slight inconvenience as my drink took longer than expected to arrive at the table. It would have been better if the beverage arrived simultaneously with the meal.

While the experience and flavours are top-notch, it’s worth noting that Corner Tree Cafe’s prices might be a tad higher compared to other cafes in the vicinity.

Entering Cafe Cognito felt like stepping into a charming secret haven. The ambiance exudes warmth, and it was evident that this place held a special significance for the locals, serving as their cherished “community meeting place.”

The menu, though not exhaustive, showcased delightful offerings prepared fresh daily, as well as enticing daily specials. Cafe Cognito also takes pride in sourcing ingredients from local suppliers, which I also appreciate.

As I savoured my soya latte, the comforting aroma filled the air, and I couldn’t resist pairing it with one of their gluten-free brownies. The combination was simply divine – a blissful moment for my taste buds.

The team at Cafe Cognito was as diverse as the community it served – a mix of old and young, local and non-local, full-timers, and part-time students. I think this contributes to the cafe’s welcoming and neighbourly atmosphere.

While Cafe Cognito basked in the warmth of appreciation, it did have a few drawbacks. The cafe closes its doors on Sundays, unlike others in the area, limiting the opportunity for a weekend retreat. 

Additionally, one staff member’s demeanour seemed a bit distant, which marred the overall welcoming vibe. However, it was clear that this was an exception rather than the rule, and the rest of the team more than compensated for it with their friendly nature.

Situated in the heart of Aberdeen, I can see that The Craftsman Company has its own unique charm. Their selection of artisan coffees, craft beers, and wholesome dishes captured my curiosity.

What sets them apart was their mission to reunite coffee and beer. It was more than just a place to grab a drink; it was a platform for independent brewers to showcase their craft and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

I quite liked their wood on wood aesthetic complemented by a delightful mix of stone pillars and brick walls. It added to the cosy and inviting atmosphere, making my visit all the more memorable.

The friendly team also made me feel right at home, ready to help me explore their array of brews without any pretentiousness. They genuinely cared about what they offered, and their passion shone through in every aspect of the experience.

I couldn’t resist trying their pesto egg sandwich, and boy, it didn’t disappoint! The flavours danced on my palate, leaving me craving for more. 

However, there were a couple of hiccups that slightly marred my visit. The food took a bit too long to arrive, and my coffee got there way ahead, resulting in a lukewarm cup by the time my dish was served.

As much as I appreciated their dedication to coffee, my flat white didn’t quite hit the mark. It tasted more like milk with a hint of coffee, missing out on the rich coffee notes I had hoped for.