I should title this review “A Comedy of Errors” because ordering at L’Espresso Café was not straightforward for a first time visitor such as myself. The café itself is tucked at the back of a lane with a small counter on one side and some tables arranged within an alcove on the other which gives it a cosy feel.
I had heard the café had a Vietnamese flair, so my interest was piqued as to what food offerings would be available. As I viewed what was available at the counter, the server asked if I would be interested in a bacon and egg roll. I replied no, and explained about being vegan. The manager replied that I could have a rice paper roll. I have to admit, that a cold spring roll was not what I was looking for on a Sunday morning, but I would give it a go anyway because nothing else looked suitable. Spring roll with a soy mocha – I steeled myself.
As I walked to my table, I noticed a breakfast menu taped to the wall that contained many more options than what was available at the counter. Why had they not told me of this! More importantly, why is the breakfast menu not on view at the counter? I went back and told them to put my spring roll in a takeaway container and I would have one of the toast options that came with spinach and mushrooms. Things were looking up!
When my plate came out, it was missing the avocado as listed in the menu. As I had not stated ALL the ingredients they had only included the ones I did mention. So I was brought some avocado slices as a side dish.
Although the presentation was uninspiring, the food was actually quite good. The mushrooms were tasty and moist and the spinach flavourful. Coffee was good as well.
Although the ordering was a frustrating process, the staff were very polite throughout. I am sitting halfway between liking and disliking this place, but I feel that on a return visit things would hopefully progress more smoothly.
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