Cafe Creperie Cila - gypsy flowers and pancakes in Northfields

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Restaurant review

July 2004

Cafe Cila's lilac and buttermilk walls, dotted with sprays of flowers in an almost gypsy style, declare that this cafe is owned by an unashamed romantic. No catering to the fashion for suave and sophisticated understatement here. We liked the cheery greeting given to each person coming in, and you get the feeling that the owner is doing his  utmost to make the cafe welcoming to all, not just the Beautiful People. The outlook may not be pretty (facing Tesco's), but the bright and airy corner site benefits from being on the sunny side of the street and the shady awning will no doubt make it popular during the summer.

The crepes are good value, with some interesting fillings, if a little bit on the thick side for my taste. Other choices include baked potatoes and baguettes. The juices and the coffee were excellent, and the pastries looked appealing, if only we'd had room. Open during the daytime only.

Update October 2005

This cafe continues to provide fresh and tasty lunchtime meals, good coffee and a pleasant welcome. On this occasion, I asked for the pancake to be thinner, which was delivered as requested, and was cooked to an appealing golden lacy finish. If you do choose a pancake, don't plan on going out for a big meal in the evening, as they are surprisingly filling.

The tables are small and round and it would be difficult to seat more than four of you together. This cafe would be a great choice for informal lunchtimes alone or with a couple of friends, and there would be plenty on the menu to suit children too. My friends said that they were hadn't thought of coming in to the cafe before, but now they would make a point of returning, and would bring their families.

 

October 18, 2005