By David McKenzie McKinnon
There is a café in Hillcrest on Middle Road next to the BP fuel station called Taste My Bean and is often referred to by the regulars as TMB because Taste My Bean is a mouthful after all and we all seem to abbreviate our words and names these days.
Now you may be able to shorten the name but there is no shortage of great food and coffee at TMB. For me, the first time was a very pleasant experience from the moment I walked through the door to the time I left.
First thing I noticed is the great decor and how clean and spacious the café is, but what truly makes this experience so good is the staff.
Immediately when I step up to the counter I am made to feel welcome and not rushed to order. I did take some time to place my order as the menu is large and interesting and not just the food but the coffee and cold drinks menu has a great range to make your choice that little bit harder.
I ordered a coffee and a lamb and halloumi ciabatta roll and I have to say that if I could have fitted another one in I would have gone back to the counter and bought one.
I hope to go back soon and start working my way through what looks like a great menu. I think I will try a frappe next time, not that the Merlo coffee wasn’t great as it was, but watching the other customers enjoying their frappes was enough to make me want one.
As you know great food and drinks alone does not make a great café and good service on its own won’t either, but TMB have managed to do it all as well as the cafe’s staff having such a great energy that it enhances the experience.
Taste My Bean opens early around 4am for those that like a great coffee before getting to work. However I would recommend checking the hours on TMBs Facebook or web page. I believe they are open till at least 6pm but possibly later.
As well as dining in they have a great drive through which I assume is for those early bird coffees on the go.
Taste My Bean can be found at 33 Middle Rd Hillcrest next door to the BP. This is one for my list of favourites.