London is overtaking Amsterdam as the cycling capital of Europe. It’s therefore no wonder we’re seeing a rise in the number of cycling cafés popping up across the capital.
With many cashing in on the new phenomenon, it is look mum no hands! on Old Street that set the trend. It’s the original cycling café for London’s many passionate cyclists.
On a typical Monday morning, I checked out this bustling spot to see what all the fuss was about and why it draws in the crowds.
The first impression that springs to mind is the clear indication that this is a cycling café and nothing else. It’s also hard to miss the venue, with the clear and funky sign illuminating the busy street.
The pleasant exterior carries on inside, with the café catering for customers of all ages and backgrounds.
But what immediately grabs my attention is the in-house workshop nestled in a corner, allowing customers to grab a coffee or a bite to eat whilst trained experts fettle with your bike.
Chicken, Leek and Mushroom Pie with a side salad and a cup of tea.
The temptation of one of their well-known pies and a drink proved to be too hard to resist. I found myself choosing a chicken, leek and mushroom pie with a pot of tea.
Whilst this appeased my appetite, the resulting bill of £11 was rather annoying. With a £9.50 price tag, I was expecting a beautiful, tasty pastry product, but I’m afraid to say what I was given was disappointed.
The pie was bland in flavor and, alarmingly, perhaps a little undercooked. But on the flip side, the tea was excellent.
It’s easy to see why look mum no hands! has garnered a popular reputation as a calm and chilled environment because it does exactly what it say’s on the tin.
If you’re going for a quick coffee on your way to work then it’s great. If your going for a meeting with a friend, or getting your bike fixed up, then it’s brilliant. But if you’re going for one of their pies, then it’s unfortunately disappointing.
look mum no hands! café and workshop, 49 Old Street, London, EC1V 9HX;
café only at 125-127 Mare Street, London, E8 3RH