Cliché Cuteness?
Cute sounding and in a cute spot in the Morgan Arcade. The Maple and Bean is a neat little cafe that’s tucked away in the tunnels of Cardiff.
But cute might just be about all I can say about the place. Don’t get me wrong the place was absolutely lovely. There’s a definite aesthetics and two stories of little tables that allow you to be immersed in the arcade. Yet I didn’t find anything outstanding.
Maybe I’m not the target audience – that being a student looking for a spot to hunker down in for a couple hours in and study at; because in the time I spent there, there was a definite turn over rate. People came for their lunches and left. And if that’s what you are looking for: a space for a girls brunch or a catchup with family then I would advise you to go. Indeed, maybe it was my fault for not utilising their lunch menus with jacket potatoes, sandwiches and all day pancakes.
Yet, saying this I’m just looking for a good slice of cake and a big pot of tea, and sadly this wasn’t really met. Sure there was cake, but nothing spectacular. And sure there was tea that came in a cute pot. But I personally didn’t find that it was enough for the price. I ended up going for a toasted teacake on my visit, and once again the same story stands. It was ok. Possibly from a packet and a little burnt if anything and not very warm. Yet, this could all be my fault! Like I said, the other menu items looked promising- but not for a study session I think.
All being said, my service was quick, the cafe was clean – albeit a little cold – and the place definitely has potential. But I wouldn’t place it high in my rankings. Don’t let this stop you though. Please go and try it if you are a pancake fanatic, or are in need of a good lunch. Judging by how many people came during the time I was there, and how many times they were at full capacity, others certainly enjoy the place.
Price 3/5
Food and drink 2/5
Location 4/5
Atmosphere 4/5
Service 4/5
Words by Ellen Hollingshurst (@a_bakingmess)
Classic Cardiff arcade cafe
I have to say off the bat, LOVE, LOVE, LOVE. I first spotted this site in my first year of university, but it was soon closed, and at the time was known as The Plan. Maybe not the point but the building is beautiful, in its Cardiff arcade way. Set over two floors, my favourite place to sit is on the first floor next to the banister and I can stare down at all the people buying coffee. I think it’s great because it’s little off the beaten track and so there’s normally a free table but still central enough to be an easy stop and have buzz.
It’s got a really rustic feel to it with the wooden flooring and the staff are so friendly. In more recent years, I’ve also become quite the coffee snob, my mum has dubbed me Goldilocks – it needs to be just right, not too bitter, but also not just coffee flavoured milk. Maple and Bean deliver just that.
I don’t like being critical but my one critique as a baker is the baked goods could be stepped up. I’ve never been shocked by them, they’re good but not amazing. That being said, the Oreo brownie is really good, and I don’t like Oreos.
Overall, a great find for Cardiff’s cafe scene. Its an indie, its got great vibes and the coffee is just right.
Price 4/5
Food and drink 4/5
Location 4/5
Atmosphere 4/5
Service 5/5
Words by Poppy Adams (@_poppyspantry)
For more information about the Maple and Bean, have a look at their instagram @mapleandbeancafe and their website.
Photo credits to Ellen Hollingshurst. (@a_bakingmess)