Arriving on a very quiet Sunday only an hour before closing, I didn't exactly get the typical experience. The staff were nevertheless pleased to greet this latecomer and direct me to one of the many seats available. The seating area is rather generous with around 15 tables so there's more than enough room to sit for quite a while unless it were especially busy.
There's nothing outstanding or memorable about the decoration, but this is a plus point in some ways since it means there's nothing to distract. Whether it be work or socialising, you can simply get on with whatever you came for. In fact, there are lots of reasons to stay for a while, though your posterior might nag you after a short while as the seating is cold, hard wood and metal.
The danish that I had was a bit stale which I suppose it to be expected at the end of the day. The coffee on the other hand was outstanding. Very skilfully crafted even with my almond milk order.
Prices are fair compared to other establishments in town and the location is perfect if you're near the high street and looking for somewhere to rest up for a while. Given the lack of options, you'll find Carafe is a blessing and one not to be missed for those looking to work for a while or have a casual meeting with a friend.
Rating Details
Lots of tables (given the size of the town) so one can sit for quite a while without feeling like a seat stealer. Staff also don't seem to mind. Wifi is free and the code is written on the wall, tables are spacious, chair comfort is... adequate. Music is quiet enough and flat enough not to be distracting. They even have plug sockets! The only gripe I would have is that the cafe being on one floor in a relatively small room, the noise from the coffee machines can be heard clearly.
This is just not something they have in mind. There are plenty of veggie options, but dairy is apparently a must. At least they offer alternative milks
Don't expect to be able to eat anything gluten free here. Well okay fine, they sell crisps.
Beautiful coffees made to a high standard. They aren't exactly artisinal, and presentation is very ordinary, but they're well above average in terms of looks and taste.
It could be argued that they have an extremely high health focus if you consider a sandwich to be healthy, but arguably most people in the modern world don't view a dish that is 80% bread to be a healthy choice. Apart from sandwiches there are pastries and cakes.
I had an apple danish and the taste was good, as was the presentation. But it was very much stale and dry.
