Reviewed
July 03

There's something great about the idea of a bookshop Café . A place where you can curl up with a huge steaming mug of hot chocolate and a book, and watch the world go by before you remember to turn the page. Coffee Republic certainly entices you to do just this - but don't think it's just our secret. Walk up to the 1st floor of Blackwells Bookshop in Broad Street at any point between 11 and 3 and you will find the Café busier than the whole of the rest of the four floor shop. Unfortunately this means that you will have difficulty getting a seat, and the large, engulfing leather sofas are highly prized territory. It is quite common for people to spend a whole day in the Café , reading, meeting friends, laptopping (there's a handy power point near the high counter seating) - so that you need to be up early with your beachtowel to bag the best position.

Coffee Republic has a limited but adequate range - cappuccino, espresso, latte, mocha and hot chocolate as you'd expect, some organic herbal teas, Innocent smoothies and other soft drinks. Coffee addicts will be glad to know that standard (why is 'smallest' always called 'grande'?) cappuccino has two shots of espresso for £1.79 (take note, Starbucks). Sandwiches (£3ish) and cakes (around £1.50 for a muffin or pastry, less for one of their fantastic brownies or muesli bars) are also available, and good soup in winter. The baristas are generally friendly and efficient in serving drinks at the counter - and not too pressing about clearing away empty mugs later.

Coffee Republic doesn't operate a loyalty card: it's a shame, but it's not surprising. They've got everything they need to keep their customers already.

Abby Chicken