The Caffeine Chronicles: Scenery Coffee

I first came across Scenery Coffee when I enjoyed one of their particularly delicious Colombian coffees at Loam in Brighton earlier this month. When I found out that Scenery's café–roastery is much closer to home, in London's Borough neighbourhood, it didn't take me long to pay them a visit. With a wide selection of great coffees served in an airy and spacious café, it was well worth the lunchtime walk.

Scenery is based inside the Jerwood Space, an arts venue on Union Street. In case it isn't obvious from the street names (hello, Copperfield Street!), this is the heart of Dickens territory. The surrounding streets are steeped in history, the James Ashby & Sons ghost sign down the block offering a fitting nod to Borough's long connection to the coffee and tea trades.

The Jerwood Space is located in a former Victorian school building, and Scenery's café blends period features with a bright, modern aesthetic. Stepping inside, I was immediately drawn to the shelves showcasing their beautifully packaged retail coffees. There were eight different options, mostly single origins (including one decaf), as well as their Facility espresso blend.

I picked up a bag of Peruvian beans from producer Consuelo Rubio and headed over to the counter, where more decisions awaited. With three espressos, a batch-brew filter coffee and four coffees available on auto-brew, these are the decisions I like to make! After some advice from the friendly and knowledgeable barista, I opted for a piccolo with the Colombian El Jaragual espresso.

I took a seat at one of the tables in the adjacent café space, a large room that must once have been one of the classrooms. It was busy when I arrived but more space opened up when the lunchtime rush died off. While I waited for my coffee, I checked out the food menu. I'd already had lunch, but I'll definitely be back to try the breakfast roll or one of the sandwiches, salads and pies.

My piccolo was meticulously brewed and tasted wonderful. A thermal shock washed coffee, it had a lovely sweetness with tropical fruit flavours when served with a little milk.

I've also been enjoying the Peruvian Sidra coffee at home, brewing the coffee through my V60. I chose the coffee for its flavour profile rather than the packaging colour. It's just a happy coincidence that it coordinates perfectly with my dripper!

Scenery's mission is to serve 'profoundly straightforward coffee in SE1 and beyond.' Their coffee is also profoundly delicious. Whether you're after a quick espresso, a change of scenery over a leisurely brew or beans to brew at home, Scenery is a great place for a coffee stop in Borough. 

Scenery Coffee. 171 Union Street, London, SE1 0LN (Tube: Southwark). Website. Instagram.

For 150+ more of my favourite coffee shops in London, check out my London specialty coffee guide.