The Antishop

They’ve only been open since February of 2014 and are already making a huge impact on the surrounding community. Why? Well everything they offer is handmade. The pastries, cakes, savouries, oils, vinegars and pastas for sale on the beautiful wooden shelves, AND the chairs and tables themselves. The Antishop promotes talent in London, having partnered with CASS school students to create the décor for the coffee shop. Their basement is even full of graffiti or wall art. What’s neat is that the Antishop is even willing to make a contribution to the homeless on your behalf – whether that be a coffee, sweet or chair, you can purchase something for the homeless and get a little thank you e-​mail in return. Apart from the wonderful food and charity contributions the Antishop makes, the women who work here are wonderfully accommodating. Their beautiful French accents fill you with warmth and if you stick around long enough (not hard to do as the Wi-​Fi is great and the place is cozy) they might offer you a slice of whatever they can no longer sell. But shhh.
–Belgian Chocolate Brownie: oh man – delectable. It has a hard outer layer, but the interior is fudgy and chocolate oozes with every bite. Very rich and dark.
–Chocolate Guinness Cake: woah it’s actually good. I can taste the Guinness! Did you read that? I can taste it — I think it comes primarily from the frosting atop. The cake is nicely moist, spongy and heavy – just like a proper Guinness.
FINAL VERDICT: I didn’t have their coffee so I suppose returning for more is simply a must.

Hip little coffee shop just at the beginning of Brick Lane. We had a coffee to go for around 2 pounds, which is absolutely great. Haven’t tried the pastries… because I already had a cheating day that week haha. Next time I’ll def try though, because they just look too delicious to pass on another time. Also A for customer service!

There are numerous cool places along Brick Lane and I definitely think The Antishop is one of them. Nestled between curry houses, across the street from the artsy Suzzle, and just a short walk from the «central» part of Brick Lane (aka the intersection with Hanbury St) this little café is worth a visit.
I’ve been intrigued by this place for months, tempted by the amazing treats in the window. I’ll admit those are what finally made me stop in today and I’m very glad I did.
I ordered a double chocolate cookie and a flat white. I’m not a coffee expert but I do like to know where the coffee comes from. The barista was kind enough to show me what they use; an italian coffee company called Caffe Guglielmo. I’ve never heard of it but on her recommendation I decided to give it a try. Turned out to be very nice, tasted sweet and chocolately. I’m not sure the milk was frothed properly and there was no latte art which was a bit disappointing.
The cookie was fantastic! Double chocolate, some sugar drizzle on top and the size of a small plate. Thin and crispy exterior but still gooey inside. Crunchy but soft, basically my perfect cookie and I would definitely come back to try another. They also have red velvet cookies definitely trying that one next time!
The atmosphere inside really makes this place stand out. It’s like a 60s inspired design but with a modern twist. I love the wallpaper and the cute decorations spread throughout the shop. There are lots of small tables with mismatched chairs. It was empty when I was there but even when some groups showed up it still felt spacious and comfortable. A very nice addition to Brick Lane.

Try the raspberry macaroons. Just amazing. Great coffee place, with great music, definitely coming back.