4TH AVENUE COFFEE ROASTERS

BEST FOR People-watching over excellent breakfast. FOOD Although this tiny, much-loved space does serve lunch – unfussy toasties, open sandwiches and salads, with a dominant chicken or tuna mayo and salmon theme – it is at breakfast that they excel. Start with the Early Rise crumpet, topped with spicy tomato, a perfectly poached egg and ham. Or turn to The Hangover if you need all the help you can get: a no-fail, all-in egg, bacon, tomato, chilli and three-cheese delight. The French Stack (fluffy ciabatta French toast), comes with spicy tomato relish, a generous serving of crispy bacon, and is topped with melting parmesan shavings. Vegetarians don’t have much choice, but the oats with yoghurt or seasonal fruit do nicely. Freshly baked cakes, in full or slim slices, round out the offering. DRINKS Outstanding coffee is the hallmark here. SERVICE Attentive and pleasant. AMBIENCE A laid-back vibe at this street-facing spot creates an atmosphere of chatty neighbourliness. (SM)