Welcome (to) Home. Whether I’m grabbing a quick takeaway or settling down for a few hours to work (and work my way through the menu) I always feel welcome here. Home Coffee is a triumph in Portsmouth’s independent coffee shop scene, which has exploded in the last few years. Once hard to find, we are now spoiled with choice. I either make the journey to Albert Road to visit their first store with a very cute garden but I am lucky enough to live closer to their second, bigger, location in Cosham. Both places have a similar feel to them, using bare wood and white tiles along with the same menu, guaranteeing I can order my favourites wherever I am.
Home boasts a healthy menu of made-to-order-dishes. Vegan and vegetarian-friendly with coffee shop favourites done very, very well; sandwiches and bagels, crostini with various toppings, seasonal specials and sweet treats. I have no shame in admitting I am ADDICTED to their guacamole on sourdough. “Hipster!” you cry but I urge you to try it. Smooth avocado, crisp pieces of spring onion, punchy coriander. On the side, extra seasoning, chilli flakes and the final touch – a lime wedge. I’m a big fan of garlic in my guac, it’s not for everyone but I’m only here to impress my taste buds. The sourdough is from the fabulous Bread Addiction on Elm Grove. Perfect, crunchy and proper. Their banana, berries and cream cheese on sourdough is another big hit with me (can you tell I’m a fan of “stuff” on toast?) sprinkled with chia seeds and a drizzle of honey. There’s the option to make this vegan-friendly, as with most of the menu.
Coffee! I haven’t even mentioned the coffee! The Home guys take great pride choosing their coffee, changing the selection depending on season and availability. Their signature blend is delicious and fruity. They offer espresso, V60 pour over an Aeropress. If you order one of their single origin coffees it comes with more information and tasting notes. A nice touch so you can learn a bit more about what you’re drinking. Coffee not your thing? No problem. A good selection of quality tea is available as well as tasty, nutritious smoothies and some interesting beetroot, turmeric and matcha lattes. Last, but certainly not least, they’ve started up their own charity, Good Company. The aim? To tackle loneliness in the city. Keep an eye out on their Facebook and Instagram pages for fundraising events and the popular board game nights.
Continuing their good work, Home give a 10% discount for bringing your own reusable cup on takeaway drinks. Ideally, you’ll find a cosy spot, settle in and enjoy this local business and the hard work they put in.
By Danny Alexander
Featured Image – Home Coffee Shop
1 comment
Absolutely agree with all of the above. I love the Cosham Home, it’s great to be able to sit and knit or write in a lovely, peaceful atmosphere. A great place where my dog is also welcomed and he (usually) is quite well behaved there. Love it! Love it!