Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm mmm mm: sigh of food-related pleasure…read more
Tucked away in one of Bristol's quirkiest corners (quite literally, it's on a corner) one can take refuge in Poco Café Bar safe in the knowledge that they are in good hands. Whether it's a caffeinated pick-me-up that you're after, a hearty stomach filler, a light bite, or even a hangover cure, I can vouch for the high quality you will receive. All four members of our little party were suitably impressed, and if anyone had been eavesdropping on our table, they would have heard frequent exclamations of pleasure along the following lines: "Oh you must try this...", "God this is delicious...", "Wow that looks good!" and "That was so tasty I want more!"
So what's the deal? What's so good about it? Well I simply must start with the coffee, it is mouth-wateringly good. And I can be fussy about coffee (as can my companions) so it really is saying something. It comes served up in a comfortingly solid mug for those who might be feeling a bit 'fragile' - or if you would prefer a super strong coffee, a double strength version can is offered up in a chic little tumbler. PLUS they are amazing value - one tasty Americano only costs 150 pennies. Think of it as half the price, but double the taste of places like Starbucks & Co.
The food is also something special. Even the bogstandard basics have little upgrades to make them even more wholesome. For example bread is replaced by sourdough, quinoa is available as well as rice, and even the baked beans are homemade! And if that's not enough to tantalise your tastebuds, how does a sourdough sarnie with bacon, rocket and harissa sound?...and that's just the lunch menu! We ourselves, went for a late breakfast and I was able to enjoy a bowlful of fresh fruit, apple compote, yoghurt and granola (see photos) all just for £4. It was the most deliciously nutritious thing I've eaten in a long time. My friend on the othe rhand opted for the 'Moorish Scramble' and can confirm it lives up to its name, served up with lip-lickingly tasty slices of chorizo. Om nom nom indeed.
What else? The setting is rather soothing. There's quite a calming atmosphere about the place. And even though I wasn't quite able to get there this early, it actually opens at 9am on weekdays which pleases me: one of my pet peeves is places that advertise breakfasts but then don't actually open until 11am. Furthermore, it opens late Wednesday - Sunday to cater for dinner as well. It would appear that Poco is quite versatile and covers all areas from casual coffee to full-on dinner menu, and I'm willing to bet it does all of them with a flourish.