I went to Compass Coffee this afternoon for the first time. Immediately upon walking in, you're hit by a stunning and immeasurably cool theme of being inside a ship. As you sit down, you notice all sorts of ornaments that fit the room, amongst books, art and jewellery. Near the kitchen, they have various labelled pots of incredibly diverse teas to choose from, with the benefit of being able to smell them yourself.
The menu is diverse, whether you're looking for a savoury snack, cake or more of a proper lunch-type meal. In addition, it's all organic produce sourced locally.
I had the smoked salmon and cream cheese sourdough sandwich with rocket. As a smoked salmon snob, I had high standards set and in this case, the meal was exquisite.
The salmon was greatly balanced without it being too dry or too oily, the cream cheese acted as a soft foundation to the fish, rather than an overpowering shedload squished underneath it (which you see in too many cafés) and finally, the rocket added a peppery layer to complete the dish. All of this sat nicely on generous slices of warm and crispy sourdough.
With the sandwich, I had an organic ginger beer which was nice and hot, without it being too sugary (you have the option to buy a milder version of the drink).
I shared a dessert with my friend, which I think was a Victoria sponge-like cake. It was delicious and not overbearingly rich (topped nicely with some coconut in the icing). However, go to the counter and you'll find plenty of cupcakes, cookies and other little snacks to buy. I concluded the meal being comfortably full.
Would I go again? Absolutely. You can't help but feel very cozy in the place, and its unique feel just makes hanging out there so different to any other café in the city. You tend to forget you're in a busy London road. It's all just so relaxing.
So, if you ever feel like having a coffee, tea, meal or just somewhere to read your emails...you'd be silly not to do it inside a ship.
Compass Coffee opened today and the place is incredible - it has the interior of a ship - a wooden ship. In a cafe. Take a second to absorb just how cool that is. Then there's great hot chocolate, fantastic food and fit staff. If you're looking for a coffee in Dalston, or if you simply want to spend the day pretending you're a pirate, head over!
Woot woo! This place rocks!!!
An error has occurred! Please try again in a few minutes