The Thousands

Before fluorescently hostile BP On The Run’s, before staff at McDonald’s and petrol stations were, er, ‘baristas’, there were these things called delis. You should probably ask your dad all about them. When you were watching Saturday Disney or Video Hits, he was down at the local deli with the Golden Retriever called Wilbur, buying the ’tiser and whining to the friendly owner about where the council is going to put that darned car park.

Now, Espresso Royale is no deli. At least, not like I remember. My only and fondest memory of my local corner shop was one in Largs Bay that sold cheeseburgers, involving a hot dog roll, some Coon, a sandwich press, and no beef at all. Delicious. The thing about this great cafe is that it carries that cool local deli vibe. It’s understated, personal like a lounge room, a little quirky, and lovingly mismatched.

But there’s more. Espresso Royale roast their own beans and make a mean cup, and love the organic Ethiopian stuff. It’s perfectly hard to spot but that makes finding it all the more fun. Maybe you should take your dad there. Last time I was there they were even playing good ’60s tunes. Your dad will dig it, and so will you.