Let's get cosy

It's the season for a hot coffee and a comfy chair. ELLIE KENDALL rounds up some warm and welcoming new cafes to pay a visit

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As the colder weather returns, many of us will be venturing more often to local cafes and coffee shops to seek shelter from the rain and respite from the chill.

And fortunately for us who love a cosy cafe venue, we haven't been short of new openings this year.

We've welcomed charitable coffee shops with good causes at their heart, as well as dog-friendly spaces, places where you can make some pottery, and even a popup featuring characters from the universe of the Moomins. We've also welcomed bigger chains like Gail’s, Black Sheep Coffee, and more than one new Loungers venue.

But we've focused this list on some of the smaller, independent businesses whose openings may have passed you by. So if you're on the hunt for a new cosy cafe to try this autumn and winter, we've got you covered.

FIKA

Address: Unit 4 Broad Quay, Bristol, BS1 4DA

Fika, an independent, familyrun cafe, opened its doors back in July in the former home of a city centre Chinese restaurant. It serves up “Fikaccias” (pictured right), as well as baps, jacket potatoes, salad bowls, and a range of hot and cold drinks.

The name Fika is inspired by the Swedish tradition of “slowing down, connecting with others, and enjoying good food and coffee” - a philosophy owners say is at the very core of this new local hangout. Founded by husbandand-wife duo Peyman and Pampi, Fika promises “more than just a quick bite: it’s about pausing, sharing, and savouring”.

Peyman and Pampi, both passionate food lovers with deep roots in hospitality, are bringing what they describe as their unique spin to the city’s food scene, with a menu built around one signature item - focaccia-loaded sandwiches, made fresh to order every single day. They describe them as having “soft, olive oil-kissed focaccia packed with bold, vibrant flavours and premium fillings that celebrate both quality and creativity”.

MOOMIN CAFE

Address: 68a Park Row, Bristol, BS1 5LE