Buhler & Co, Walthamstow

8 Chingford Rd, London E17 4PJ
https://www.buhlerandco.com/
Walthamstow is a bizarre place in as much as it doesn’t quite feel like London despite being sandwiched between Tottenham and Hackney. The surrounding marshes give it moat-like protection against the onslaught of city living whilst it almost operates as a town unto itself, with its own little centre and parklands encircling it in a hipster homestead atmosphere.

I’ll soon be calling it home, having put the deposit on a flat with my partner, and we’re here to do a bit more reconnaissance on the surrounding area so we can perhaps bed in a little-easier upon arrival. I know it a little, thanks to galleries like the William Morris one and God’s Own Junkyard, as well as its proximity to Chingford, Enfield and Epping, areas I visited from time to time in my youth.

As such, after a foray down the High Street, I direct us towards bougee brunch spot Buhler and Co. initially missing it and having to retrace my steps to make sure we end up at the right place.

Serving small plates of internationally inspired vegetarian cuisine, I’ve always enjoyed its cobbled together upmarket vibe that sees a sleek front area full of polished stone and shiny countertops, and a back garden that feels a bit cosier with tables assembled upon decking for a more bohemian ambiance.

No food today, having had noodles from a street food vendor next to the main shopping centre, but I order a short, sharp, oat flat white and a cold pressed juice to quench my thirst. The coffee is bold and plucky, picking at the tastebuds as it confidently slides over them. It has a rich roast to it that permeates the oat milk well but remains smooth whilst enveloped by its dairy-free companion.

It's a great starting point to my future adventures in Walthamstow’s café scene, let’s hope there are more like this to come.