Local hero? Farine, Wandsworth

Farine is the latest venture by the coffee gurus behind local chain ‘Press.’ Taking over the premises of what was the ‘Barmouth Kitchen,’ it sits opposite local favourite ‘Mehmet’s’ towards the top of All Farthing Lane. This also happens to very close to where I live.

For the last few months, it’s been with growing excitement that I’ve been watching the redevelopment process. Being honest, the coffee at the Barmouth Kitchen, wasn’t exactly my cup of tea, or coffee either. I wouldn’t go as far to say it was nasty, but it was definitely sitting on the un side of pleasant. As someone who probably purchases at least one professionally brewed coffee a day it was frustrating have such a poor choice so close.

At last, after months of waiting Farine opened its doors to customers on Friday the 1^st of November. Having waited in for most of the day for a parcel that seemed to refuse to come, it wasn’t until the middle of the afternoon that I was finally able to experience it myself.

The interior on first inspection was the standard Scandi-cool of light exposed pine walls (isn’t it good, Norwegian wood.) There are smaller tables towards the front, with larger seating areas toward the back, and the counter and coffee machine closer to the door.

Coffee is the usual Wandsworth prices (i.e. you could get a jar of Gold Blend for the cost of double shot latte in here, I paid £3.40 for a cortado,) but well up to the standard set by the wider ‘Press’ chain. Seating is comfortable and I found myself relaxing and realised that if I relaxed too much more, I wouldn’t end up getting back to work.

Farine is a break from the Press brand and is looking to be as well known for its alcohol as its caffeine, having an extensive wine list as well. Presently they will be open till 8:30pm every night to encourage this. Having enjoyed my coffee I determined then and there to return that evening.

It was with some eagerness that I made my way back over just after 6:30 that evening. I had no plans that night, so was footloose and fancy free. As I got closer, it quickly became apparent that every man and his dog who lived locally had much the same idea. As well as being jammed with humans, there were enough of our canine friends to start their own group at Crufts…I felt under dressed for not having one with me.

I was lucky, there was a single seat for sad lonely people that seemed to have my name on it (don’t they all.) I sat down and was quickly supplied with a menu and wine list. Wine is the owner’s passion, and she talked me through the various options.

Servings range from 175ml glass, through 500ml carafe to bottle. I started with a glass of Malbec at about £9. This was nice and warming on a slightly chilly autumn night, with a robust flavour obviously reminiscent of the pampas and large steaks.

I followed this up with a glass of St. Emilion which had a more premium price of £13, and to be fair a more premium flavour, subtle rather obvious, delicate rather than heavy. I very much enjoyed both but for very different reason.

There was food available, you know the sort you often find at wine bars, olives, charcuterie boards. A charcuterie board would set you back £8.5 and were being enjoyed with gusto by my presumed neighbours who were all busy slapping each other on the back and comparing their dogs.

My 2 drinks set me back £22, but I enjoyed them and the atmosphere, and I’m looking forward to returning, though I will bring a friend and my dog next time.

Farine,

2 Barmouth Rd, London SW18 2DN