Recently I was searching for a place to park it with the laptop and plug in. I saw the "free wifi"…read moresign, and the large sacks of coffee beans along one wall. It seemed like a work in progress, but I decided to give it a try.
The staff are members of an Italian family, from near Rome. The cafe has a pleasant, slightly chaotic atmosphere. I found a table and settled in, ordered some coffee, and kept an open mind. Since this shop is in a "developing" part of Spitalfields, a few blocks south of the market, I wasn't sure what to expect.
It turns out I discovered a place that fits the intangible profile of what I like: independent stance, its own atmosphere, definitely not your typical coffeeshop. The best thing to do is kick back, do your thing, and watch the proceedings over the top of your laptop screen or book. From time to time characters walked in and spoke to the owner and other customers about politics, business, whatever. Sometimes even in English. At one point someone pulled up in a Lamborghini and gave the owner's child a ride around the block, I think.
They make food there, and they sell coffee beans, and grind them to your specification. They'll ask you what you like in your coffee, suggest a blend, and even write down the percentages in a little book in case you like it and want to re-order again next time.
I came away thinking this place has a certain attitude and character. I hope they keep it that way.
(The name stands for "fazenda", which means farm or plantation in portuguese, and "uk" which stands for... well, you know.)
