Among the raw-concrete jungle, bobbing boats and lunchtime skateboarders, this canal-side gem has effortlessly hits its stride, without trying too hard. Behind the windowed facade, where the golden-hour sun dances across the blonde wood tables, the atmosphere is alive and never unbearably loud, avoiding the all-too common case of trendy coffee shops: think laptop-friendly without ever veering into snooze-inducing coworking territory, with a playlist that pairs perfectly with the hum of the espresso machine. Like a sweet start to your morning? The homemade banana bread hits the spot, the burned Basque cheesecake is to die for, and the caramelized French toast flirts dangerously with addiction. Come lunchtime, options include the halloumi burger, classic avocado toast or even little sandwich buns with furiously nostalgic fillings like gouda and salami. The verdict? Here’s a haven of peace on the banks of the canal, where everything else around can feel a little stuck in the past – except for the coffee, which remains an indecent pleasure, perfectly sourced from Wide Awake Coffee. We’ll be back for the genuine smile behind the counter, the calming natural light and the certainty that here, coffee has finally found its soul mate. // Gordon Bleu

FEELING THIRSTY? Early-riser necessities, like espresso (€2.90) or matcha latte (€5.90), plus aperitif options, like pet’ nat’ (€7.50 a glass) or Negroni (€14).

PRICE: Plates €11.50 to €16, sweets €9 to €9.50.