The second Kaffeine on Eastcastle Street delivers great coffee, delicious food and friendly service in a modern environment. Whenever you want to take a break from the busy surroundings of Oxford Street (or your office - if you work in the area), there is not much more you could ask for!
In early spring 2015, Kaffeine opened its second branch on Fitzrovia's Eastcastle Street, just a few minutes from the original store, but significantly closer to the constant hustle and bustle of Oxford Street.
No question, after I have been visiting the original Kaffeine store regularly for several years now, I am biased and probably not the most objective reviewer. So I intentionally waited a few weeks before I wrote this review, to get a better impression of the new location and not write everything based on previous experience at the first shop.
The second Kaffeine feels very familiar and also a little bit alien at the same time. The general layout of the shop is recognisable, like a mirrored setup of the first shop. The abundance of free space in the middle of the new store on Eastcastle Street certainly creates a slightly different atmosphere and makes take-away orders much easier.
Most materials used appear more modern, while preserving basic characteristics of the Kaffeine style - if there is such a thing. The high tables are a beautiful mix of wood and concrete. Where people are used to exposed brick walls these days, the new Kaffeine presents itself sleek and polished with washed concrete, light wood, copper, a black wall and white tiles. I also like that the design of the tables is continued on the walls.
When I first walked in, I was surprised about the interior, because I probably expected something that looked more like the first shop. But after looking around and spending some time there, I really enjoy the refreshing mix of colours and surfaces.
I got to think that Kaffeine in Eastcastle Street puts more emphasis on food. Since the shop opened, I've already discovered a few tasty new treats, like the absolutely delicious chocolate and raspberry cake - and some of the new items also make their way to the Great Titchfield Street shop.
The coffee is excellent, as you expect from Kaffeine: beautiful black cups, filled with great Square Mile coffee and finished off with carefully crafted latte art by lovely and skillful baristas.
Now, I must admit, that I kind of prefer the original shop. The darker wood, the brick wall, the size or probably just the different floor plan create a warm coziness that makes me smile. Besides this, the bench and the tables simply work a little bit better for me - maybe just because I am used to it all.
However, altogether I do really like Kaffeine on Eastcastle Street and will soon be back for another coffee, and to check out the rest of the food menu. read more