Book-ish

Famous book shop found in the riverside Welsh village of Crickhowell, now also home to a superb, locally sourced ingredient coffee house & cafe.

Their coffee is from local roaster Black Mountain Roast in the nearby book town of Hay-on-Wye, the cakes from Cakehead, Welsh cakes & Bara Brith by Baked by Natalie found here in Crickhowell which is also home to their smoked salmon (Black Mountain Smokery) and meat (Cashells) suppliers.

All food is freshly made on-site something the head chef (Jim) really prides himself on. Early risers (until 11:30) will find their refreshingly different breakfast menu where on our summer visit included shakshuka, roasted peach with crunchy granola topping, poached eggs & avocado on focaccia or sourdough, smoked bacon focaccia sandwich and choice of breakfast pastries (croissant, pain au chocolat, pain au raisin).

At lunch there’s a moreish selection of focaccia & sourdough sandwiches; book club (chicken, bacon Mediterranean salsa), sticky & smoky chicken (shredded chicken, chilli jam, roquito peppers) or three cheese tuna melt. Additionally there’s a choice of salads (including a hot roasted salmon or caprese), choice of calzones or healthy Moroccan or Masoor dhal bowls.

Cakes; blackcurrant blondie, pecan & caramel brownie, caramel chocolate flapjack, lemon & orange polenta cake, sticky ginger, carrot or pistachio cake, Bara Brith, Welsh cakes or pastries.

Inside is a larger upstairs seating area alongside some downstairs by the counter too. Out front are some small tables and beside the library to the rear of the cafe you’ll find secure racking.