This delightful place, nestled next to the Great Western Arcade in Temple Row, oozes an unpretentious indie vibe and a great atmosphere. On top of its chalk boards, locally sourced and crafted goods and excellent coffee, it set a trend early on with its desire to pass on its craft to its customers.
Serving Has Bean through a Synesso machine, its staple espresso blend, Jailbreak, works very well as a flat white, and kicks through with fruity sweetness and a little acidity. There are often guest espressos, a plethora of different choices on drip, and every morning you can also get an old-school filter – including the dependable Philter.
Breakfast covers everything from pastries to porridge, while lunch includes the standard sandwiches and paninis – and there is always a healthy supply of cake. The chocolate Guinness cake (from Gavin, aka Tobizzy2bake) could be the best you'll find anywhere.
Further seating is available in its large downstairs space, which is often host to special events and other activities. There’s good WiFi, and you’ll be greeted by a pumping soundtrack that varies according to who’s in and who’s serving you.
This spot has always been about experiencing the coffee, not rushing it, and it’s an idea that seems to have paid off with a second venue opening at Millennium Point.