7 Roach Rd, London E3 2PA
http://thecountercafe.co.uk/
Unpretentious is the word that perhaps best describes this
café. Artsy is another one, probably because of the lofty exhibition space in
the entry foyer.
It’s probably not the sort of place you’d stumble upon by
accident, unless you happen to like wandering around industrial areas, which is
not something I’d recommend in London (speaking from experience).
Counter Café is situated on the enigmatically named Fish
Island in Hackney, directly on the River Lee Navigation canal. Affording great
views, it also overlooks the Olympic Stadium at Stratford.
For free car
parking, visit on Sundays; I’ve no idea why the council sees fit to charge for
car parking on Saturdays since the area isn’t exactly thronging with visitors.
The café takes rustic shabby chic to a new level, and makes
clever use of old cinema/theatre seating at some of their tables. The lighting
inside can be dim particularly at tables away from the windows, so take a
reading lamp in winter.
 |
| Low light conditions with cake as the highlight |
The cake selection is not particularly extensive, but it always tastes great. Brownies are a staple. I thought banana cake was also a staple until one visit when there wasn’t any – I had to “make do” with the carrot cake, which I felt was a more than satisfactory trade off.
The prices are very reasonable, which is both a good thing (economically) and a bad thing (when you then order three cakes instead of two).
The crowd is a mixed bag which makes for good people
watching. The staff are relaxed, and help make the Counter Café a great place
to hang out and while away quiet afternoons.
I particularly enjoy coming here when it’s cold and
miserable outside because it always makes me feel warm and cosy inside.
CakeMyDayLondon Rating
