Reviews Compass Cafe

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.

Woot woo! This place rocks!!!

A regular eating spot, red art offers great food and value. The paninis are a great lunch time snack. They serve lighter meals and snacks up to 5.00pm. A wide choice of food to choose from and they also make fresh juices. Can eat very well for around £10. Owner is also very friendly, recommended.

Great food, location, and service. Very reasonable prices for such good portions.

One of the best places for breakfast in Dalston! The Traditional Turkish breakfasts on the menu are so good! You gets lots for your money, if you go for the cheese and traditional Turkish bread you probably won't need lunch after! The scrambled egg is good too, slightly different to English, it is more runny. Service was quick, not so friendly as other places I have been. It gets really busy around 10.30am on the weekends and if you can sit outside as it is a suntrap!

Can't believe I haven't written this up already. I've been coming here for years - the fry ups will slay any hangover, the Spanish omelette is top notch (drizzle some hot sauce on it) and the veggie kebabs are awesome. Oh and it's cheap too. A winner.

Popped in for a very quick saturday bite. Really delicious eggs benedict and luxurious fresh orange. Polite service and a really cosy atmosphere. Was exactly what i wanted...no prentious odd chairs/cuttelry or ironic twists on dishes. And sensible pricing. Ever since Route oddly removed eggs royale/benedict i have been looking for an alternative... i think i have it.

Super friendly staff. We ordered two meals, but in the end, we couldn't finish so we had to take away. I have my lunch for tomorrow morning now, so that's cool :)

Locals like me love Red Art for the excellent service, friendly and relaxed atmosphere, consistently good food, lovely fresh orange juice, generous portions and reasonable prices. The "Boss" is nearly always there too, making sure everything is as it should be. Say no more!

This place is great for standard cafe food. You can get jacket potatoes and the lot at a decent price. Great place to simply have lunch.

Red Art Cafe is my favourite place to eat in Dalston. Day or night you're guaranteed delicious affordable food and friendly service in a cosy, unpretentious setting.