The ultimate Battersea coffice – relaxed and friendly cafe and gallery, with free wireless, homemade food and resident artist.

The Venue
Coffee 1st is set back from the pavement at the Northcote Road end of Battersea Rise, allowing outside tables to get away from the traffic. Inside, the cafe is fairly large, bright and airy, with a deli-style counter, drinks fridge and slightly mismatched wooden tables and chairs. Highchairs are available. Walls are lined with original artwork by the artist and owner, amongst others. The back room offers additional seating, including a few sofas. Off the back room a door leads to a decked courtyard with four small tables, and a dreamy wall mural of a sea view beneath deep blue skies.

The Atmosphere
Music is low and unobtrusive and due to the number of laptop users, there’s a calm, businesslike feel about the place. In the back room, a few toys lay around the sofas, so local mums with babies are equally welcome. At the weekend, tables filled with those needing all day breakfast create a happy hum. Service is friendly, informal and usually prompt.

The Food
The flapjack is moist, very sweet, and the portion generous. The carrot cake is also enough for two, with a rich cinnamon taste, slight crunch from the ample walnuts and fresh creamy icing. Cakes and pastries are around £3. If you’re after something more substantial a traditional breakfast, and pie or quiche served with salad, cost around £6.50. Salads are on display at the counter, change daily and may include a mixed bean salad or more traditional green salad. Paninis and wraps start at £3.50.

The Drink
Teas and coffees are served in stylish white china. Tea is fairly standard and the choice includes herbal tea, black tea, green tea or a pot of Japanese tea. Coffee is well above average. There are several smoothies to choose from for around £3. There’s also a good choice of cold summer drinks, including frappes and teas. Help yourself to iced water from the fridge opposite the counter, which also contains a number of other juices, canned and bottled drinks, and baby food.

The Last Word
An inviting and friendly cafe that strikes the right balance between serving simple but good food and drink, promoting original artwork and offering a relaxed environment for catching up on emails or gossiping with friends.

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