The best coffee shops in Winchester?
Local blogger, Mel of Me, Myself & Ice Cream gives us a rundown of her favourite Winchester coffee shops.
I moved to Winchester in January this year without knowing about the great food and coffee culture here. As someone who loves to catch up with friends over breakfast or take myself to a cafe to work, I was keen to know what the city had to offer, and even remember searching online for “Best Coffee Shops Winchester” myself.
Seven months in, it’s clear that Winchester offers so much choice, whether it’s coffee, lunch or even speciality gins - which I’ll save for another blog post! The rise of the independents is very apparent, with each spot offering something unique that makes Winchester such a charming, characterful place to visit.
Here are just a few of my personal favourite cafes in Winchester that I’d recommend you visit if you’re looking for excellent, authentic coffee…
Coffee Lab Latte and Brownie
1. Coffee Lab
If you follow me on Instagram, this choice will come as no surprise. With Coffee Lab’s original location just a couple of minutes walk from my house, it’s become an almost daily routine to pay this lovely bunch a visit.
With expert baristas, a cool cosy feel, and fresh coffee beans in two different blends, Coffee Lab is a hugely popular hangout for locals. Upon walking in, you’re greeted with warming coffee aromas and can instantly sense the authenticity of the business. If you need a hand, just look to the chalkboard for an explanation of what actually makes up each popular drink - or better still, ask one of the guys behind the counter and they’re always happy to help!
A special mention also has to go out to Chocolate Lab’s incredible brownies - a chocoholic’s dream! If you visit here, make sure you give one a try… you will not be disappointed!
Address: 6 Saint Thomas Street, Winchester SO23 9HE
Coffee beans: The Roasting Party
Best Bit: The staff in here are great and really know their stuff. When I’ve been trying to find my perfect cup o’ Joe, they’ve helped me try new things to discover what I like best!
Josie's Matcha Latte
2) Josie’s
Owned by former England rugby captain Chris Robshaw, Josie’s was the first cafe my boyfriend and I visited when we moved to Winchester. We’d heard great things from friends who had been there so on our first morning we popped out for brunch and weren’t disappointed; they have a huge menu with lots of tasty dishes, from oats to eggs to breakfast burritos!
Coffee wise, whether it’s an Aeropress, a V60, an Americano with dairy-free milk or just a good old-fashioned cappuccino, Josie’s will have it covered. They also go beyond the standard variations you’d expect, with options like the healthy foodie favourite matcha lattes, so there’s always something new to try.
Note that if you visit on a weekend they get extremely busy (always a good sign!), so I’d suggest planning a little bit ahead to make sure you get a great seat!
Address: 28 Jewry Street, Winchester, Hampshire SO23 8RY
Coffee beans: Monmouth Coffee Company
Best Bit: While Josie’s coffees are great for a quick caffeine stop, their brunches are also to die for. Be sure to make a morning of it and try the whole hog!
Dispensary Kitchen Coffee
Newly opened in May this year, The Dispensary Kitchen has quickly become one of the most popular coffee shops in Winchester.
Located at the edge of the cathedral grounds and right by Winchester square, this chic venue offers high-quality coffee, pastries and light meals during the day, transitioning to a lovely dinner venue in the evenings. Its modern furnishings and charcoal walls blend with the building’s Victorian roots to create a sleek, Scandic-style interior that is a favourite with Instagrammers.
The baristas here know how to make a really good coffee, and the sense of community makes The Dispensary Kitchen stand out as one of the best coffee venues in Winchester.
I’m yet to have more than a drink here, but did catch sight of a mouthwatering egg and mushroom breakfast when visiting recently - definitely next on my list!
Address: 5 The Square, Winchester, SO23 9EX
Coffee beans: The Roasting Party
Best Bit: Their charming modern interior makes The Dispensary Kitchen a nice place to be, and with views of the stunning Winchester cathedral on one side, you can nab a great view over the beautifully busy grounds while you enjoy your coffee.
These are just a few of my favourite spots in Winchester, but be sure to add the following to your coffee/snacking list - there is just too much to choose from!
Rawberry
Caracoli
Forte Kitchen
Cafe Monde
Have I missed anywhere? Connect with me and tell me your favourite Winchester spots!
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