Exploring Laynes

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As a coffee lover I am so lucky to live in Leeds – there’s practically an independent coffee shop down every street serving some of the best local specialty coffees. A particular favourite of mine is Laynes Espresso, just around the corner from Leeds train station. After their small break over the new year to expand into the shop next door I obviously had to stop in to check out the new space and just double check that the coffee was still as awesome (plus they’ve just been mentioned by The Guardian as having one of the best breakfasts in the UK so all the more reason to go).

I instantly loved the new space as soon as I walked in, with the open kitchen, minimalist style and all the extra seating (they’ve kept their window seats so you can still people watch) they’ve made a vibrant home for themselves. As for the food and coffee – it’s still as delicious as it always has been – A simple menu means they can perfect and serve up a great plate of grub while you enjoy some superb coffee from Square Mile (an East London speciality coffee roasters).

What to order:
Go for brunch any day of the week and try the wild mushrooms or, if you fancy something sweet, the oaty flapjack made by the Noisette Bakehouse is a winner. As for coffee – you’re catered for no matter your tastes but I always go for the flat white.

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Photo by @rawsey – baristas new view

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New Year, More Coffee

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As per, January has been filled with people ready to re-invent themselves and make sure that the rest of the world knows it. #NewYearNewMe. Only, I’m one of them, I am a cliche with my bucket list and goals, already annoyed that I’ve failed several resolutions already but absolved to make up for it the rest of the year.. God help me.

So here I am writing a blog (#1 on the bucket list obvs) on artisan coffee in the English northern capital – a bit try hard? Yes, but so what – I get to have an excuse for taking artfully staged pictures of my coffee and food (insta game is going to be a whole new level), pretending that I have a knowledgable understanding of the coffee industry (long black anybody?) and for drinking a hell of a lot of coffee, in great places with great people. Loving the new me so far.

So with my coffee shop north book in hand (thanks Tim), I’m going to be making my way through Leeds, and as far North as I can get, to get my hands on the perfect cup of coffee. Wish me luck.