Pump n Grind
It’s official. The wait is over. Hyde Park has finally got itself a coffee shop.
Housed on Brudenell Road, just up from the student mecca that is Sainsbury’s Local, Pump n Grind is a new independent coffee hub. Their drinks won’t blow your budget and their enormous cakes are very tasty. With their combination of a perfect location, ideal for a morning boost on the way to uni, student friendly prices and a clever, R. Kelly inspired name, I’d say that Pump n Grind have got themselves a winner.
No persuasion was needed to get my friend to accompany me to this new coffee joint last week, as excuses like ‘it’s too far away’ or ‘it’s too expensive’ were invalid. So we headed down after our 1pm seminars, and just 15 mins (approximately- admittedly I didn’t time it) after leaving campus we were cosily sat down in Pump n Grind.
We arrived just in time to catch their coffee and cake deal that we had spotted on Facebook- coffee and cake for £3.50. For such a tiny establishment their menu was pretty extensive, ranging from a basic flat white to speciality loose leaf teas. They likewise let you choose the grind of your coffee, personalising each cup to the customers. Whilst sat down, I overheard an explanation at the counter of their newly received Mexican beans, which had arrived and were roasted the day before, and were now available for drinks- talk about fresh products.
I went for a soothing peppermint tea, whilst my friend picked a classic latte, both of which came served in contemporary glass mugs, toning in with the minimalistic aesthetic of the shop. They have white washed wooden benches and a ceiling-high display stand showcasing a selection of their coffee, which is available to buy in bags, and books to read whilst sitting in.
Alongside our drinks, we went for the carrot cake, however, berry crumble tray bakes were also on offer. The slice was mighty, and was extremely welcomed as we both missed lunch (blame the midday seminars). Service was likewise very friendly, with a chilled and chatty vibe putting all customers at ease in what could potentially have been a fairly intense and enclosed coffee shop.
This new coffee hideaway isn’t only about pleasing us students though. They ethically source their speciality coffee from suppliers who can ensure that farmers are all receiving the best value for their produce. Likewise, all their raw coffee is roasted on site by Grant, their in-house coffee roasting machine; a quirky, personal touch, giving customers an insight into the real coffee process itself.
I was further impressed by Pump n Grind’s efforts to reduce waste and give back to society. Any excess and left over coffee is given to The Real Junk Food Project, a group of ‘pay what you feel’ cafés aiming to tackle food waste across the nation. And that’s not all. Pump n Grind also donate 20% of their profits to St George’s Crypt, a Leeds based charity dedicated to helping homelessness and addiction.
It’s ideal for all of us lazy students; affordable coffee right on our doorstop, which simultaneously gives back to society. I can definitely see myself returning often to Pump n Grind, and I doubt it’ll be long before this new hideaway becomes a Hyde Park landmark.
Alice Holton
Image: finerestaurantfinder.com