The word “hidden gem” is often thrown around and when it comes to Aroma de Cafe in Elephant and Castle, the term can be rightfully used. Down the road from the London College of Communication, inside a Colombian arcade, is a very special eatery.
When Alex Gonzalez opened Aroma de Cafe ten years ago, Elephant and Castle looked very different. “Back then you had the shopping centre down the road, [Elephant and Castle] is famous for its South American community.”
The shopping centre Gonzalez refers to was unfortunately demolished a decade ago. Many years down the line, it is still revered and grieved throughout Southwark.
That is why places like Aroma de Cafe are so crucial to this part of London. Aroma de Cafe is more than just food. However, let me say, the food is incredible. After discovering Aroma in my first year of university almost three years ago, I have taken everyone I know there at some point or other.
It’s worth visiting whether you’re in a quick rush and want to grab a £2 empanada or you’ve got the time, and stomach, to stay for their lunch deal, which comes with a soup the size of your head and a plate like an ice rink. Gonzalez, along with chef Jolanda, make a point of upping the quality and keeping the price as low as they can.
“London can be expensive, we try to balance it out.”
You can wash all that down with a Colombian beer or shot of tequila. My personal favourite drink to get there is a manzana postobon, a Colombian apple-flavoured soft drink that is a rarity to find in London.
What makes Aroma special above all else, is the people. The customers who sit on individual tables and push them together to talk to each other, the friendly staff who are never without a smile, those just passing through or staying all day. It is a special corner of this city that I hope grows, but never changes.
Even as I wait to interview Mr Gonzalez, Jolanda the cook comes out and sits with me to eat her lunch. She tells me of her time in Colombia and Spain, finding out that we both spent a couple of years in the same corner of Valencia. Within 10 minutes, she’s showing me her children. She asks me about my family, my studies, my future and most importantly, food. Jolanda lives for food. “It’s my whole world, this is how we share.”
Gonzalez feels much the same way telling me that food is so important because “ in here it’s sharing with friends or family and going back to your roots, the culture back in your country. One part is the memories and the second part is getting to share it with those you love.”
Talking to the students at LCC who have found refuge in the cozy walls of Aroma, the same heart is felt. Zara Karlieva, a final year journalism student tells me: “As someone like me, who just started living away from their family this year, Aroma de Cafe has provided such a warm sense of hospitality. You are welcome there every time. If the staff see your face more than twice, you’re treated like a regular. On top of that the food is homemade and such good value. It’s like eating someone’s grandma’s cooking. It’s a lost art to be a “regular” in London.”
Aroma de Cafe is not the only spot like this. I implore you that if you cannot find the time to come down here to try it, though you should, explore your local area and find its heart through its food. Take out your headphones and talk to the people there. Find out about its history and do so with a full belly.
Sara Belkadi
Address: 91-95 Newington Butts, London SE1 6SF