Back when I was assembling the first Espresso 100, I popped along to a coffee jam and got talking to a guy who was running the coffee stall at Dalmeny station, serving train patrons with their required commuter coffee jolt. We talked about our respective plans for the forthcoming year.

It was a joy to run into him in his finely furnished new premises called Cult Espresso, when I first visited a couple of months ago. Today, I looked in to give them a proper assessment.

They’ve taken the very sensible precaution of enlisting some of the city’s best suppliers, so baked goods are from Manna House and soup is from Union of Genius. In many ways it’s a bullet proof combo that’s hard to argue with.

What was really pleasing to encounter was a soup from Union of Genius that I hadn’t tried before. The Caribbean chicken and coconut was one of their best to date. The heady broth mixed rice, soft chicken pieces and veg to outstanding effect.

Their coffee, from Round Hill roastery, was simply excellent, too. I’ve sampled three of four different types on my visits and each has been first rate.

So overall, Cult Espresso is now established as a firm favourite. The welcome is full of charm and good humour and the quality on offer is superb. Visit soon and visit often.

Scores
Blythe scores Cult Espresso
5/5 for food
4/5 for presentation
4/5 for setting
4/5 for service
giving an overall 17/20

I ate: Caribbean chicken and coconut soup

I drank: espresso

I wore: Hull City tie

Total bill: £5.80