Leoni, Malton

Simon Robertson, the owner, fell in love with coffee culture while backpacking around the world (a man after my own heart). He is a passionate, friendly chap and serves a terrific brew.

Simon has collected various national barista titles and competed successfully at the World Barista Championships. Leoni won the BSA Best Beverage Experience Award 2006, a national prize in recognition of outstanding coffee shops.

Despite the accolades, the café retains a rustic, down-to-earth appearance. Old tables, untidy bookshelves and piles of newspapers. It is welcoming, charming and utterly unpretentious.

This is a haven for coffee lovers. The menu describes the varied options in detail. I plumped for a cappuccino, which was (and remains, as of August 2008), the best cappuccino I've ever had; carefully prepared and presented, with stunning taste.

There is food available of course, but plenty of space (downstairs and up) for sitting with just a hot drink.

If Simon is not around his well-trained baristas take good care and serve with a friendly smile.

It's a super place in the finest traditions of coffee culture.

16 Wheelgate
Malton
North Yorkshire

BSA Best Beverage Experience Award: (http://www.beverageserviceassociation.com/awards.asp.

Simon Robertson is quoted extensively in this BBC article: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/7204551.stm

Amended August 2008