The Gardens

A cavernous place with so little outside signage for us to walk past it once in looking for it. Rather minimalist interior with an interesting display of both sweet and savoury pastries. A bit chilly. The jumbo sausage rolls looked intriguing but we were all to full up to try them. The lady behind the counter and possibly proprietor recommended the Guatemalan coffee for espresso. This turned out to be truly memorable - strong but with remarkable taste as well. Highly recommended.

I am difficult with coffee and rarely find a cup from a coffee shop as good as a pour over I make at home. But I’m not always home. I just moved to the area and have been checking out the range of independent coffee shops here. The Gardens of Caversham was a surprise. Don’t go there for the decor—that almost detracts—go for the coffee. They do pour over, which was the first surprise, so a few special instructions are involved. The staff (Marie) was polite and efficient, but also accommodating of my “helpful” suggestions. Not the barista war of egos I often encounter. She made the grind a bit coarser for me and the water super hot. Their standard for pour over is 24 grams which is generous and also what is usually needed. I tried the Stark blend as it was the darkest roast they had and it was very good. Worth a review. Coffee is subjective so I won’t try to describe here. On my second visit I tried the washed Ethiopian which was also good for what it was, but less to my taste. I met the owner and briefly talked beans. He is intense— passionate about coffee, roasting and freshness. Their Stark is from Burundi, which I know to be rare, expensive and usually a bean I will like. So far I’d rate the other Reading independents as 6s and 7s and Gardens of Caversham an 8.

I visited here on a Saturday morning whilst visiting the area and thought the service, selection of cakes and drinks was really good. The staff were very friendly and took the time to explain what they had on offer. All cakes on the counter were covered which I think is essential given the current situation (covid19). Slight downside is that no prices on goods but you can alway ask. Actually I thought the prices for the cakes were fair given the good sized portions. I would return.

An absolute delight! An unassuming store front, but a bounty of baked good caught my eye from the window and I’m so glad I went in! The staff were very friendly and excitedly told us about all the offerings which each sounded better than the last. They had a variety of dairy alternatives too! After a short wait for our coffees and savory treats to be warmed we were on our way to the river to eat and drink. Will definitely be going back as I need to try each cake and quiche!