If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know that I’m fond of a café. Particularly ones which have plant-based options, Scandi décor and a generally trendy vibe. What can I say, I’ve got a thing for whitewashed walls and foliage!
Blanche Bakery has been on my ‘list’ for a while and I was very excited to visit as part of my birthday celebrations recently. It’s based in Roath, which was a complete trip down memory lane for me. I spent a lot of time in the area when I was a student! It’s not a typical place I associate with uber-cool eateries but university was ten years ago (!) and times have changed.
The aesthetic
It’s light, airy and spacious. With stark white walls, simple interior and a smattering of indie magazines, it has a clean and clinical feel to it. This might be off-putting to some who prefer a cosier environment but I personally like it. After the influx of cluttered, hipster eateries in recent years, modern and minimal cafes are a breath of fresh air.
The most striking feature is a plant-covered wall by the window, complete with a pink neon sign. “But first, coffee” was made with social media in mind. I mean, if you didn’t take a photo of it for your Instagram Stories, are you even a millennial? And yes, I did sit by the plant wall.
The food
Blanche specialises in vegan doughnuts, speciality coffee and all-day brunch. To be honest, I didn’t realise they offered brunch otherwise I wouldn’t have eaten so much in the previous café we visited.
So, we stuck with the plan and ordered doughnuts. I chose their signature French Toast, while my boyfriend had some sort of Chocolate/Peanut Butter combo. As for drinks, I went for the Vanilla Matcha Latte with oat milk and Luis had his trusty Flat White.
I’ll cut to the chase. It was the BEST doughnut I’ve ever tried. Not sickly or stodgy – just soft, melt-in-the-mouth heaven. Forget your Krispy Kreme, forget your store-bought jam numbers. These are the only doughnuts you need on your radar, I swear. And I’m absolutely thrilled they’re vegan! Luis loved his too, he barely spoke for five minutes. My only regret is not getting a box of six to take home.
The verdict
I have to say that Blanche is well worth a visit. Before visiting, I expected a pretty little cafe with doughnuts that were more style than substance. What I actually got was a pretty little cafe with outstanding doughnuts that tasted as incredible as they looked. I can’t wait to go back for more!
