Stan’s Studio

I live very close to Stan’s and was so excited when it opened — finally, a place to get proper coffee on my doorstep! When I found out it was owned by an artist also using the café as a means to display her work/​support her so she could work on her art, even better.
I wasn’t disappointed. Stan’s serves hand filtered coffee, so you wont get a latte or a cappuccino here, but what you will get is an excellent, smooth coffee and cakes and bakes from the likes of Bakery47. So far I’ve tried a banana and peanut butter loaf, brownies and a rose and pistachio sponge cake — all delicious.
It operates on a pay what you want basis, which I liked the idea of, but was a little daunted by before going in. I shouldn’t have worried though, as suggested prices are displayed and you can just choose whether or not you want to add a little extra (which is nice to do, because art). If you’re travelling from elsewhere keep in mind that it’s teeny tiny and maybe only sits around 8 or so people, but I’ve always taken away (Alexandra Park is across the road if you fancy a picnic).
The owner is very friendly and when you can’t make it along in person, keep an eye on her social media — her Instagram hashtag #peoplewhostareintostans is a hilarious watch of people peering into the shop suspiciously from their cars at the traffic lights. Though I do worry I’ll be one of them one day… peeking in to check out the cakes on display!

I stay literally two minutes away from Stans and have been meaning to go for ages. We popped in to check out their coffees and cakes, regretting not going sooner. Coffee was great, smooth but strong blend. I had a ginger shortcake slice which was delicious and my husband opted for the salted caramel slice, which was really tasty but not too sweet, nice balance of dark chocolate and salt. Wish I had nipped in before had lunch as the veggie chilli on the dish of the day board sounded super tasty.

I’ve been meaning to visit for YONKS and finally made it. Stan’s is an East End café where you can pay what you want, and they have lovely cakes from Bakery47.
It’s a wee space so keep that in mind when visiting — there’s a wee table for two as well as a window seat where you could fit about 4 people. There’s good tunes, a chilled-​out, welcoming vibe and of course the delicious cakes. You can also get ginger ale (made in house), toast (with butter and jam, or cinnamon brulee) and soup. They offer free wifi and are happy for you to hang out for a wee while if you want to work away on your laptop, like I am right now.
I grabbed a cup of tea and the cinnamon brulee toast which is just ridiculously delicious and tasty — and a good portion at two large slices for just £1.50. As I said, it’s pay what you want but everything is marked with a price which at least gives you an idea of what you should be coughing up! The window space is great for watching cars go by too, if you need some time for brainstorming.