It would be easy to lament the make-over of the Little Portland cafe. It used to be dingy and decrepit and have a kind of gothic, disolute charm. But now it's been decorated with these bright pinks and new chairs and strange 80s track-lighting and all that charm went away. But, you know what? sometimes we cafe afficionados have to live with that. These people have got to make a living and not everyone's a devotee of faded glory. Some people just want tea and cakes in a nice friendly environment. And they provide that with aplomb.
And they certainly make a nice cup of tea. Dark and brown and quick. In a big vessel with just the right balance between cup and mug.
And there's still a nice sense of personality to the place. It's not faceless and corporate. It's still hand-made and personal. I like the bubbly writing on this sign.
Brilliant pictures. I used to go to the old-style place when I was taking a course at a nearby computer school, after being made redundant about 5 years ago.
I remember a lot of green-leatherette booths. It had a lot of character, but was obviously past its prime in terms of the state of the fittings and general decoration.
The new look has a kind of cheerful warmth, and at least there's an independent cafe still in business.
Refurbishment and redecoration are part of the business cycle, especially if a cafe-owner wants to keep his clientele. These places will be the "classic cafes" of the future.
I'll probably pop in sometime before Xmas, based on your pics.
Posted by: Patrick | October 14, 2004 at 08:43 PM
I'm losing the plot !!!
I was thinking about Brunchies in nearby Great Titchfield St when I posted the previous message. That was full of leatherette booths
I did go to the Little Portland though, during the same period, but I don't remember it being dingy and decrepit.
Still, the new decor is uplifting.
Posted by: Patrick | October 16, 2004 at 07:28 PM
Since the new owner rennovated the Little Portland Cafe, the level of food quality has gone through the roof.
Just try the homemade pies they make (get them with mash and gravy) - they are awesome!
Posted by: Carl | January 12, 2005 at 10:38 AM