Creative brunch cafe with standout pancakes, shakshuka, and sandwiches; small, busy, and occasionally chilly with takeaway waits, but food and coffee generally shine.
Mesa delivers exceptional food quality anchored by standout pancakes, shakshuka, and creative sandwiches that inspire repeat visits and neighborhood loyalty. Attentive, genuinely friendly service elevates the experience, though tight quarters and occasional cold temperatures prevent the grade A territory. Strong execution across core dimensions makes this a competitive neighborhood favorite worth seeking out.
Mesa feels like a warm neighborhood hub where creative brunch plates meet strong coffee and a steady buzz. Reviewers rave about the food, from fluffy pancakes to rich shakshuka, with service described as genuinely friendly. One diner put it simply: "This tiny cafe served a breakfast I will remember for months." The room can feel busy and compact, and winter visits sometimes feel chilly, but the welcome is sincere. The cooking leans ingredient-focused and playful, weaving Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cues into familiar brunch formats. Expect harissa, labneh, zhough, and zaatar alongside Scottish staples like black pudding and potato scones. It suits diners who enjoy bold flavors without fuss—the kind of menu where a Reuben sits comfortably beside a green shakshuka and poached-pear pancakes. Families do fine here: kids can tuck into pancakes with maple, eggs on toast, bacon, and lighter sides, while adventurous teens may enjoy the halloumi or chicken club. There is no explicit kids menu, and space is tight at peak times, so earlier visits are smoother.
Area vibe: Lively East End neighborhood spot drawing locals for brunch, coffee, and takeaway rolls.
Safety: Generally safe with steady daytime foot traffic; typical urban vigilance applies.
What's nearby: Mixed residential and indie businesses along Duke Street; other cafes and bakeries nearby.
Think buzzy, compact, and creatively spiced brunch in a small neighborhood cafe.
Pancakes, shakshuka and hefty sandwiches are the standout dishes, with prices ranging from about £7 to £13.
It is a casual, compact spot that can be cold and crowded at peak times, with limited parking.