Parlez

16 Coulgate St, London SE4 2RW, UK

Editor's Review

The pedestrianised area surrounding Brockley Overground station has been steadily developed in recent years. In competition with the established and renowned Browns of Brockley, and Broca next door, Parlez is the third café in the immediate area, but stands out by having later opening times, an alcohol license, and a widespread food menu. The perfect midway between a fancy restaurant and a casual café, it is both sophisticated and chill, so you feel equally at ease sitting down to a nice meal, or swinging by for a pre-commute espresso.

By day, kids and pets abound, but as the light dwindles there is a subtle change in atmosphere, marked by the live piano music on Friday nights – the outdoor seating catches the evening sun, so becomes a sought-after spot to appreciate this quiet corner of South East London. Parlez uses Brixton’s Volcano Coffee Works as a house roaster, and the seasonal food is also locally sourced; combine that with their neighbourhood-orientated cosiness and you get a scene worthy of their social media handle: ‘parlezlocal’.

Review: Jonny Clowes