The doorstep toast
While searching for a Cardiff cafe, I was stopped by the phrase “doorstep toast” and knew I needed to visit whatever establishment served this. So off I headed to The Bike Lock, with its miss matched tables and chairs and mellow lighting. All which emulate cosy, Gilmore girl vibes, and the pleasantness of everyone makes it one of the friendliest cafes around.
With a system for storing bikes for commuters coming to Cardiff, the cafe promotes sustainability, and the service of good coffee. Don’t get disparaged by the fact non-students go in, if anything, be encouraged by it! It made me feel like I was finally getting a hold of this “adulting” thing. It also gives plenty of opportunity of people watching while getting some work done
If that doesn’t entice you, the smell of the place certainly will. Serving what I would call a brunch style menu, the Bike Locks description of doorstep is no exaggeration. Thick slices of bread are toasted and slathered with condiments, or freshly cooked bacon, or even with melted cheese. Plus, they serve various homemade cakes, all also coming in the “doorstop” size. Other options such as porridge, cereal, eggs and teacakes are also avaliable. I nearly couldn’t make up my mind – eventually opting for the pumpkin spiced cake, which was divine.
Honestly, a true representation of kindness, and as a social enterprise it works within the community, for the community. It brought a smile to my face seeing the “bridge ladies” come in for their weekly coffee chats and games. The general family feel just made me feel welcome to stay. I can’t wait to visit them again, and know I’ll be bringing my family when they come to visit. In the meantime, I’ll be dreaming of the doorstep cheese on toast and reminiscing their cake.
Price 4/5
Food and Drink 5/5
Area 4/5
Atmosphere 5/5
Service 5/5
Words by Ellen Hollingshurst (@a_bakingmess)
A free table for me
The Bike Lock might honestly be one of my favourite Cardiff cafes. It’s busy but there’s normally a free table just for me. It’s off the path but close to home, and they always have an excellent selection of cake to go with my caffeine fix. It’s a great place to debrief with a friend, or to get some good reading done for that dissertation I know you haven’t started yet. Not that I’ve had the chance yet but their lunch/brunch menu looks incredible and I’ll definitely be dragging friends back with me
Price 4/5
Food and Drink 5/5
Area 4/5
Atmosphere 5/5
Service 5/5
Words by Poppy Adams (@_poppyspantry)
For more information, bookings, events and updates visit The Bike Lock’s Website, and instagram page.