I
really wanted to go back to The Parlour for another slice of their red velvet
cake, but all seats were taken and no amount of glaring at the customers would
make them leave. Truth be told, I glared at no-one… instead, I hung my head in
resignation, shoulders slumped, and shuffled out the door in defeat.
But
joy of joys… after a short stroll up the road, I spotted a red velvet cake,
like manna from heaven, on display at Le Parc Delicatessen.
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| I borrowed this picture from the internet. I promise to give it back. |
The
café doubles as a gourmet deli, with the store area at the front, and seating
at the back as well as having a surprising wine cellar and tasting area in the
basement (plus another couple of tables).
Overall it’s a small space, but cosy
and nice on a miserable winter’s day. Its location is a slight disadvantage,
being right at the end of the “golden mile” of shops, and therefore at risk of
being overlooked in favour of more prominently located shops and cafes.
The
style is a little hotchpotch and rustic, with no discernible theme to it other
than “deli”. There isn’t anything wrong with it per se, and it’s really just a
matter of personal preference. I prefer cafes with defined themes or quirks, as
this helps them to stand out from the crowd.
But
there can be no arguing with the cake. It was red, it was velvety, it had
buttercream icing. The cake delivered on all fronts. Ben had a banana nut slice
and pronounced it as “very good” and the coffee was done well.
Of
all the Stokie cafes I wouldn’t rank Le Parc at the top, but it’s a safe back
up plan for a rainy day.
CakeMyDayLondon Rating
