Once upon a time you had two choices when it came to coffee – black or white.
Now however the humble bean has been elevated beyond recognition, offering drinkers a world of sophistication and an endless amount of options.
Choose an espresso, a macchiato, an americano or even a ristretto – that’s a turbo charged espresso for those not in the know.
The latte and the cappuccino make sound Italian but they are now a huge part of the lives of people across the UK – and Sunderland is no exception.
Sharon Appleby, head of business operations at Sunderland Business Improvement District believes the city is particularly blessed when it comes to coffee shops.
“We’re lucky enough to have not only a huge number of nationally recognised chains but also a host of independent and unique coffee shops and cafes across Sunderland,” she said.
“That’s also good news for other businesses in the city because the chances are that people will meet up at their favourite café and then hopefully stay to eat or shop.”
So where are the best places to have a cuppa? Here’s the BID’s secret slurper’s guide to some of Sundeland’s top coffee stops.
HOLMESIDE COFFEE, Holmeside
The go-to place for the city’s coffee aficionados. Run by people who care – and know – about coffee, they use products from the region’s leading coffee roasters and suppliers, Newcastle’s Ouseburn Coffee.
Cool setting, great food and chilled out atmosphere.
GOOD FOR – those with time to spare who care about what they drink.
COFFEA CABAN, Blandford Street
Turbo powered comfort food is on offer at Coffea Caban – and some pretty good coffee too!
And if you’ve decided to move away from the bean, then try the amazing deluxe hot chocolate, oozing with cream.
Generosity is the name of the game here, large portions and plenty to satisfy the sweetest of teeth.
BEST FOR – Those who love comfort food – and drink.
SERENDIPITY TEA AND TRINKETS, Frederick Street
A warm welcome, a unique setting and coffee and tea served in vintage crockery – what’s not to like?
With a variety of different menus for any time of day and some mouthwatering homemade cakes, this is always a great place to visit.
And what’s more you can even take your coffee drinking to the extreme with a Hollywood-inspired cocktail featuring coffee flavoured liquer!
BEST FOR - those with a sense of nostalgia
STARBUCKS, The Bridges
There’s a reason why Starbucks is one of the biggest brands on the planet – because it produces excellent coffee no matter what your taste.
Drink it cold, drink it hot, drink it strong, drink it with added flavour – caramel syrup anyone? – there’s an option for everyone, with new seasonal favourites constantly available.
BEST FOR - Those who like the familiar
BIZ-R,High Street West
Busy at every time of day – and no wonder. Great location and a stylish interior makes this café a really popular choice. Top notch coffee and we would defy anyone to resist the temptation of the delicious selection of sandwiches and cakes.
Coffee is freshly ground and then freshly brewed, which gives great flavour every time.
BEST FOR – Those who like to sit and watch the world go by.
THE ENGINE ROOM AT THE FIRE STATION, High Street
The new kid on the block and steaming ahead when it comes to great quality coffee. Large cups of a really intense brew make this a must for caffeine lovers everywhere and there’s a great day and night menu if you want to make it more of an occasion.
BEST FOR – Those who like to check out something new.
ESQUIRES, The Bridges
Part of a chain but once again offering some excellent brews, with the opportunity to sit inside our in the enclosed area on one of the main malls.
Take advantage of the loyalty card and enjoy a beverage for free – you can use the money you’ve saved on a delicious sandwich or cake.
BEST FOR – Those who like to window shop.
COSTA COFFEE, Debenhams,The Bridges
Another international favourite which has found itself a home in Sunderland. Here you can enjoy all coffees great and small in a variety of permutations. Chuck in an extra shot if you like it hot and strong.
Our favourite is the cortardo, not fot the faint hearted although it does come with an actual heart, etched in the foamy topping.
BEST FOR – Those needing a pit stop after some department store shopping.
THE GOOD APPLE CAFÉ, Derwent Street
The place to have your treat and eat it – particularly if you’re doing veganuary. Veggie and vegan specials are on the menu and the café is part of the international Suspended Coffee scheme where you buy a cuppa for someone who needs it.
This pay it forward initiative has world wide support.
BEST FOR –Those who like coffee with a conscience.
GREGGS, the Bridges, various locations around the city
They may be known as purveyors of the finest pasties in the land but Greggs also offers a pretty good cup of coffee, either to drink in at the Bridges café or to take away.
The favourite outlet uses its own blend of beans and its all Fairtrade, so it’s full marks all round. Then again they’ve been in business for 75 years, plenty of time to get it absolutely right.
BEST FOR – Those who like coffee which comes with a whole heap of North East history.
THE KEEL LOUNGE, High Street West
Exposed brickwork and chandeliers add to the overall quirkiness of this city centre stop-off point.
The name is in keeping with local attractions near-by - namely Keel Square and the art installation, the Keel Line – with a menu that is in the main, sourced from local produce.
And the coffee is pretty good too!
BEST FOR – Those who like to pay tribute to the city’s shipbuilding history.