VISITING 15 Cafes in Westbourne - Exploring BH4's Coffee Shop Scene

Westbourne is a place that whispers quality, from the elegant Victorian architecture of the high street to the tempting window displays of its many independent businesses. I decided to dedicate a few days to truly exploring the heart of the BH4 postcode, moving from one excellent coffee spot to the next to capture the unique flavour of each cafe.

My journey began at the beautifully named Ounce, where the quiet, focused atmosphere immediately told me this was a place for serious coffee. I enjoyed an expertly brewed pour-over, appreciating the staff's dedication to precision, setting a high bar for the rest of the day. 

Needing a bit more sustenance, I popped into Luca's Takeaway Café on Seamoor Road. I grabbed one of their signature, fresh toasties and a robust latte, instantly understanding why this family-run spot is such a hit with locals for a warm welcome and quick, quality bite.

Day 2 and I found myself drawn to the contemporary cool of The Hutch. The stylish, light-filled interior was perfect for a relaxed pause, and their smooth flat white was exactly the high-quality, modern brew I was hoping for. 

For a change of pace, I wandered over to Moka Pot, where the scent of baking and Italian spices hung in the air. Their Sicilian-British fusion was a treat, and I indulged in a delicate pistachio pastry that perfectly complemented my espresso. 

The allure of pure sweetness then took me to Chocol8, a truly decadent lounge where I sampled some rich Belgian chocolate alongside a strong Americano - a perfect pairing for a mid-morning sugar lift.

On day 4 I made my way to Maravi, excited to visit a cafe that roasts its own beans. The freshness and depth of flavour in their house blend was noticeable, and I spent a pleasant half-hour watching the world go by in their airy space. 

Then came Circo Lounge, a complete shift in energy. It was buzzing! The vibrant, quirky decor and extensive menu made it the ideal spot for a leisurely lunch; I felt I could stay here all day, especially knowing about that hidden terrace.

Needing a post-lunch stroll, I checked out a couple of convenience stops. I found The Terrace offered a reliably welcoming and casual spot for a quick drink while Starbucks provided that familiar, comforting blend and dependable seating for a quick email check.

My independent exploration on day 4 resumed at Westbird, a chic, newer spot that successfully marries modern design with a cosy feel—it’s definitely one for the aesthetically-minded coffee lover. 

Nearby, Saffron Makes and Bakes charmed me immediately; it felt like walking into a friend’s kitchen, and the generous slice of homemade cake I ordered was truly exceptional.

Looking for something truly culinary, I visited Franco's Yard, which exceeded expectations with its globally-inspired menu and vibrant atmosphere—this is definitely a destination for brunch, not just coffee. 

Similarly, Bigwigs was a sensory delight; the aroma of fresh artisan bread and beautifully crafted pastries made it impossible to leave without a treat.

For a final stop on day 5, I explored Été, the wellness-focused cafe. The calming, minimalist decor and the selection of healthy, vibrant juices and light fare provided a mindful moment before diving into the French quarter. 

Finally, I finished my Westbourne cafe crawl at the utterly exquisite Le Petit Prince Patisserie. The sheer artistry of their cakes and pastries was breathtaking, making my final coffee of the day feel like a sophisticated, sweet celebration of Westbourne's incredible and diverse cafe scene.