I grew up in a small village east of Oxford, where my parents still live. Up over the aptly named Ladder Hill is Wheatley, a larger village that has a few more shops, pubs and cafes. Among these is a specialty coffee shop with the excellent name of Bruin Café, which my parents told me about some months ago. I finally managed to visit while I was with my parents at the weekend.
I jogged to Bruin from my parents' house on Saturday morning, a steep two-mile journey. The cosy café is located on the High Street, just across the road from a stretch of shops including the Cornfield Bakery, which has been there since I was very small.
They serve coffee from Origin, and as I'd messaged with owner Louis the day before to check that they were open, there was a natural Nicaraguan San Jose Gesha coffee available that sounded right up my street. Brewed as a pourover, the coffee's juicy apricot notes came through beautifully, especially as the coffee cooled.
As I had a hilly and chilly run home, I also ordered a piccolo, which was also very well brewed, and a tasty almond croissant. There were also some breakfast bagels on offer, and a range of cakes and other sweet treats, some baked in house.
Louis and his team always offer a very warm welcome, whether you're a regular (several popped in during my visit), a newbie, a coffee geek or any combination of the above. If you happen to be in the Wheatley area and are looking for a great cup of coffee or bite to eat, you need look no further.
Bruin Cafe. 87A High Street, Wheatley, Oxford, OX33 1XP. Instagram.
For my specialty coffee suggestions in the city of Oxford, check out my Oxford specialty coffee guide.
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