Hello hello - Adam here, founder of Cardinal Coffee Club and long time coffee enthusiast. Like the proverbial hipster, I burnt my tongue as I drank coffee before it was cool! All joking aside, I’m just a keen coffee bean and love a bit of cafe culture (the more pretentious the better, might I add). What I will say is that I’m a little more old school and usually enjoy a simple black Americano or Espresso. Syrups and flavourings aren’t really my jam - they just hide the taste of the coffee. Am I wrong?!

My first edition of C.C.C is a local one, at the super chilled Bean & Bread in Rogerstone. As a Rodgie resident, I probably spend a bit too much time (and money) in this place, but it’s just too damn tempting at times. Plus, the guys working here are great craic and always have a pup cup ready for Juno - we’re hooked!

So, it’s Sunday morning, I’ve been out for a run and I’m thirsty for it! Me and Juno get caught in the rain en route so arrive like a couple of wet dogs (great start). As it’s a Sunday morning, the place is pretty full but we manage to grab a high table next to another dog fam. Cue the usual dog related chat and swooning. Things are on the up!

It’s great service as ever as the Americano and Pup Cup is over within minutes. Nice to see young Max today, who’s a part time Barista and full time rockstar in his band ’New Gale’ - check them out. He also just informed me he bought a neon orange copy of Midnight at The Valencia, so is a proper gentleman. The decor in this place is as chilled as the atmosphere - stripped beams across the ceiling, lime washed walls and enough house plants to fill a greenhouse. Vibes in abundance. Plus it’s always nice to see a La Marzocco machine in full view too!

The coffee is as good as ever, the beans in the hopper today are ’San Fermin’ by Origin. These guys apply “sustainable and organic practices through innovation and climate resilience”. Which is just up my alley. The beans are Colombian (one of me favourites) and the notes we’re getting are dried apricot, orange and almond - oooff! The display of cakey goodness catches the eye too, so I of course give in to the temptation and grab a Biscoff Cake, plant based too which is always good. I’d better go for another run…!

All in all a strong visit. Bean and Bread never disappoints, and I thoroughly recommend you (and your dogs) drop in for a cup.

Ciao, with love,

Adam x

Scores on the doors

Where - Bean & Bread, Rogerstone, South Wales

Coffee - ⭐⭐️⭐️⭐️

Vibe - ⭐⭐️⭐️⭐️

People - ⭐⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️