Upon arriving back in Durham this October, the unexpected discovery of a new Flat White on Saddler Street had me dying to try it at first sight. Being a huge fan of the existing cafĂ© tucked away on Elvet Bridge but hardly ever being able to find a spare seat, let alone a table, I couldn’t wait to see what the new venue had to offer on top of its more promising size. My first visit was only temporarily delayed by the almost constant queue of excitable coffee-lovers at the door, yet Flat White Kitchen’s popularity is simply a tribute to the fantastic food and environment it offers, making it entirely worth the wait!
There is something incredibly comforting about the cafĂ©’s traditional yet modern decor, consisting of robust wooden tables and stools set against the partly white-washed, partly dark-bricked walls. The generous distribution of plants upon window sills and tables, set in a variety of orange terracotta pots, metal cans and glass lantern holders equally contributes to Flat White’s quirky and innovative ambience. Its lively yet calming atmosphere is perfect both for those wanting to catch up on some work over a much needed coffee and also for those catching up with friends across a delicious, vibrant lunch. Either way you will leave feeling relaxed and refreshed, ready to face the rest of the world and already looking forward to your next visit.
The biggest downside to Flat White Kitchen is the dilemma that you will face in deciding what to order. Upon my visit today (eagerly deemed as necessary in order to gain some article inspiration), I was torn between the scrambled eggs on toasted sourdough, the house granola with skyr yoghurt and berries, the roast vegetable ciabatta roll and about half of the rest of the menu. In the end I settled on toast with house preserves, a generous slice of banana and walnut loaf and a flat white (as good as the cafĂ©’s name suggests). I was not disappointed with my choice. The decision was tricky but I was rapidly comforted by the fact that I can, and will, go back.
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Furthermore, as if my impression of the cafĂ© couldn’t get any better, my friend informed me that Flat White is the biggest contributor of leftover food to Durham FoodCycle, a volunteer-led scheme offering free meals to the homeless. It is therefore not only dedicated to providing luxurious coffee, mouth-watering food and a welcoming environment, yet is equally devoted to helping those in need, perfecting its reputation in my eyes. If you haven’t already tried it then I strongly recommend a visit to Durham’s friendliest and quirkiest cafĂ© in a city full of great cafĂ©s. I guarantee that it will put a smile upon your face and leave you excited to return and sample the rest of what Flat White has to offer.Â
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Check out their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/flatwhitecafedurham/