Baker Street Bazaar

I like filter coffee, a lot. To me nothing is as comforting and invigorating as a cup of fresh, hot, black filter coffee. Ideally made with good quality beans. Many coffee shops just don’t do it. There’s an espresso machine culture and the humble filter has fallen by the wayside; not to mention the association with bad coffee at motorway services and burnt dregs in workplace kitchens. Baker Street coffee fulfilled my need entirely. I walked in, was greeted with a smile, and, seeing filter on the wall board, I asked if there was any. The pot was empty but the barista was happy to make another if I didn’t mind waiting. I assured them it was worth the wait. Sat out the front to wait, not a very comfortable bench but I understand pavement real estate is lacking. I’ve had coffee there before (latte) and inside is fine, places to sit, people seem to like laptop working in there. They even had Borek once, which was yummy. After the expected wait, out came the same smiling barista; they apologised for the wait, and presented me with a cup (to go, as requested) of hot fresh filter coffee. I walked to a bench, sat down, and had the best cup of Joe I’ve had in ages. To me, filter coffee is entirely separate from espresso based drinks. It’s what an Americano or long black wish they were, a platonic ideal of coffee. Sweet without any sugar added, nice fruity acidity, not bitter or burnt or over dark (I’m guessing a light-medium or light roast. Mouth feel isn’t heavy, it’s lightly coating and juicy, almost like apple juice. Aftertaste is roasty and it leaves a lip smacking feeling. 10/10 Perfection. I’ll be going again, and actually asking what the coffee is next time!