Stag Espresso at the Warburton Gallery

During May and June last year, it was lovely to see the cafe space in the Warburton Gallery taken over by Artisan Roast as an early summer pop-up. I sheltered there on many an occasion. Recently, the folks from Stag Espresso have taken over the space, establishing Stag 2.

Originally just offering coffee and cakes, soup has recently been added to the menu, so I gave it a visit to put it through its paces.

The wood panelled cafe is very smart. The emphasis is on long, communal tables with a few window seats. I sat at one of the long tables after having ordered their soup of the day, which was spiced tomato and chickpea.

This soon arrived, delivered by the friendly counter man. It was accompanied by three little slices of good looking bread.

It proved to be very good indeed, with warm and welcoming spicing and a hearty texture. On a day of heavy, soak-you-to-the-skin raindrops, it was just the thing.

Their espresso changes regularly with this week’s choice being from Scottish roastery Glen Lyon. It was excellent. I’ve subsequently visited and tried the outstanding Atkinson Archetype, which is now the house espresso over at Dovecot Studios.

So overall, Stag 2 is right up there at the same level as its big brother at the other end of Chambers Street. I was really pleased with the quality on offer and would strongly recommend a visit.

Scores
Blythe scores Stag 2
4.5/5 for food
4/5 for presentation
4/5 for setting
4/5 for service
giving an overall 16.5/20

I ate: spiced tomato and chickpea soup

I drank: espresso, water

I wore: www.tieclub.co.uk tie

Total bill: £5.80