Fernandez & Wells Coffee Bar, Soho, London

We popped in on a snowy April morning. Inside was warmer than out, but no less white, and I was struck by the lack of background music and nattering customers.  I half expected Randle Patrick McMurphy to walk in and liven things up (if you're not sure who I mean, see here).

We felt like a crossword and my companion asked the barista if there was a newsagents nearby.  The customers overheard and offered suggestions, and one gave us his copy of the Observer... turns out they were a right old friendly bunch!  I was much happier.
  

I waited patiently for my flat white as the barista applied her skills, and I felt a little sorry for a takeaway customer (who seemed to be in a bit of a rush) as the minutes ticked by. But when my coffee came it turned out it was well worth the wait. In fact (in my far-from-expert opinion) it was perfect; possibly the nicest mug of coffee I've ever had. And now I have a new-found interest in places that take a long time to prepare coffee.

The beans (by the way) are provided by the Monmouth Coffee Company as such are ethically sourced and top quality (click here to read about a nearby branch of Monmouth).

Seating is by way of long wooden bars facing the walls and window.  This is a spot for quiet contemplation, not a group chin-wag.

There is fine-looking food on offer, which doubtless draws on the expertise of the owners and their renowned food and wine bar of the same name on Lexington Street. I noticed the barista carefully arrange the display when she had a spare moment; everything here is done to perfection.

Fernandez & Wells Coffee Bar
Beak Street
Soho
London
W1F 9SR

http://www.fernandezandwells.com/beak.php

Amended 26 August 2008