There is a particular pleasure in having a place you can return to knowing you will eat well and be…read morewarmly welcomed. For me, Good News Coffee Shop on rue Mademoiselle has become just that.
I have been coming here since it's first opening, back in the days, often for lunch during the week and sometimes with my family. My usual order is simple: a quiche, followed by a chocolate chip or an all-chocolate cookie. Nothing elaborate, just the pleasure of a good lunch, carefully prepared. These days, the consistency is what brings me back several times a week. Whether I eat in or take something away, I know I will enjoy it.
Since Sam joined the kitchen, I have noticed a distinct improvement in the food. His quiches are particularly good: full of flavour, satisfying without being heavy, and reliably well made. That reliability takes skill and effort, and as a longstanding customer, I appreciate it. The same care carries through to the shakshuka, the avocado toast with a poached egg, and the baking. The feta scone is delicious, as are the babkas, the banana bread, and the weekend cinnamon rolls. There is plenty to tempt me away from my usual order.
The drinks deserve a mention, too. We very much enjoy their café allongé, and the iced teas were a lovely part of our visits over the summer. Considering the quality of the food, the service and the setting, I find the prices very reasonable.
What completes the experience is the professionalism and warmth of the current team. Sidonie is unfailingly helpful, with a generous smile that makes you feel welcome even during a busy lunch service. Maria brings that same kindness and attention, and although I don't know everyone's name, the appreciation extends to the whole team. They work hard, work well together, and make the welcome feel genuine.
Having visited frequently throughout the summer, including during the heatwave, I saw how much effort went into maintaining that standard. Sam's concentration in the kitchen, the team's organisation and their attentiveness to customers all deserve recognition. It is easy to enjoy a pleasant lunch without thinking about the work behind it; here, that work is worth acknowledging.
The coffee shop is cosy, thoughtfully decorated and pleasantly international. I would happily recommend it for breakfast, a weekday lunch or a weekend brunch. Mornings tend to be quieter, while lunchtime can be lively, but what stays with me is remarkably consistent: I have eaten well, been treated kindly, and leave feeling better for having stopped by.
Thank you to Sam, Sidonie, Maria and the whole team. The care you put into this place makes a difference, and keeps me coming back.