August 30, 2024

OUT Recommends – Marna Coffee

With floor to ceiling windows, on the corner of Old London Road (next to the iconic tumbling telephone boxes) this independent speciality coffee shop is already a new fave with the locals.

Where it all started..
After 12 years of digital marketing in the corporate world Burcu’s pipe dream of opening her own speciality coffee shop became a reality when she quit her job and threw herself in the deep end training as a barista in her local coffee shop. “I knew nothing about hospitality… but I learnt so much during that period and I’m thankful for every minute of it”

What’s the vibe?
“Cosy with a touch of modern chic” describes Burcu, having cherry-picked every piece of furniture herself. I’ve tried to create a space where people can just ‘exist’, whether they’re catching up with friends, working on their laptop, or simply enjoying a moment of peace with a good coffee”

And if you’re feeling peckish…
“Expect fresh pastries, brownies, muffins, granola bars and banana bread. But our real showstoppers are the burnt cheesecake and the carrot cake.”

It’s all about the customer..
“They are truly the best” says Burcu, “…always greet us with big smiles, ask how we’re doing…even tidy up their tables before leaving! It’s a place that exudes community spirit. And we do get a lot of praise for it! We’ve even had an A-list celeb drop by, so you never know who you might bump into!”

“A place that exudes community spirit.”

What can we look forward to at Marna this autumn?
A warm, cute little place to make the miserable grey days a bit more bearable with a good playlist! We’ll be launching toasties and seasonal drinks (think pumpkin spice lattes and salted caramel hot chocolates).”

How do you like to Coffee+Chill?
“As a small business owner, I don’t get much time to! Either before I come in or after the shop is closed. I grab a coffee, head to the riverside, lay on a deck and bury myself in a book”

marnacoffee.com

Words by Daniella Matier
Photography by Alex Wroe

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