Tiraffe

Tiraffe is a compact café tucked into the corner of One Southampton Row, offering a calm and contemporary setting that appeals to both locals and visitors seeking a relaxed spot for coffee and light bites. The interior makes good use of space with a generally quiet atmosphere, especially on weekday afternoons, making it suitable for those wanting a breather during the workday or a casual meet-up.

The coffee menu here leans towards the thoughtfully crafted side, with some standout choices like oat lattes, matcha-based drinks, and a warmly recommended cappuccino. Specialty teas, including jasmine and osmanthus blends combined with espresso or coconut milk, add a subtle floral twist that feels a bit more unique than your standard café fare. For those who prefer iced options, the cold brew and iced matcha varieties offer refreshing alternatives, especially on warmer days.

Tiraffe’s food offerings fit the café’s calm vibe — straightforward yet careful. The avocado toast with variations such as salmon or boiled eggs covers a popular brunch niche well, alongside almond croissants and a salted beef croissant sandwich for a more substantial snack. The yogurt bowl, where you choose three fruits, caters to those after a lighter, fresh start.

Visiting Tiraffe during the mid-afternoon or early morning tends to ensure a less crowded experience, which works well if you’re hoping to unwind or have a low-key workspace for a while. That said, the WiFi connection hasn’t always impressed local patrons who occasionally find it unreliable, so it might not be the best spot for heavy remote working or studying sessions.

The staff generally receive positive remarks for being welcoming and approachable, adding to the comfortable vibe without being intrusive. Tiraffe suits coffee enthusiasts and those who appreciate subtle menu variations, along with visitors who value a quiet pace over a bustling scene.

• Best for: relaxed catch-ups, casual brunch, and savoring specialty coffee or tea blends
• Who will enjoy it: locals seeking calm mornings or afternoons, coffee lovers looking for something a little different
• Best time to visit: weekday afternoons when the café is quieter
• Atmosphere: contemporary, calm, with a friendly and low-traffic feel