Back in the UK it is not uncommon to be able to enjoy a nice cup of coffee while perusing through…read morepotential purchases in a bookshop but in Valencia, this concept is almost unheard of. Then came Muez to the rescue. All hail Muez.
From the outside you may be left rendered rather bewildered as the main sign reads Ferreteria (DIY Store). This was its former life and much of the original shell and features have been respected. At first, I thought how convenient and cost effective it must have been to not fix it up but after reflection I can probably imagine that it was probably harder to maintain the genius loci of this space.
The bookshop element of this establishment is focused on gastronomy; there's a wide range of good quality gastronomy books ranging from international cuisine, local cuisine and fine dining. You can read the books while enjoying a good coffee/tea without the obligation to buy anything. Be inspired and then get even more inspired in the Central Market which is practically opposite.
They make excellent strong espressos and for some reason my palate detects chocolate notes. There is also a good range of teas which come from a Valencian Tea Shop nearby called La Petite Planèthé. Apart from hot beverages they also have a good range of craft beers such as my favourite La Socarrada (Xativa, Valencia) and different types of vermouths. If you are a feeling bit peckish, they have sandwiches, salads, gazpacho and simple tapas such as fresh anchovies, cheese and charcuterie boards, olives and crisps. However, I do wish they would have a more in terms of cakes (to go with my coffee and sweet tooth) as they only have bizcocho (sponge cake), the most boring of all cakes. I think one or even two homemade cakes would make the world of difference. Until then, and as much as it pains me, I couldn't possibly given them the extra star.
Thank God that there is always good quality and friendly service here. The waitress that has always served me (I think she may be the owner) has always been on point and she even went through the trouble of helping me identify a song that I was enchanted by while I was there. The song in question was Leyla Mccalla - Mesi bondye. Mesi bondye is Haitian Kreyol for "Thank God"...and to God I thank that this place has opened.