I'm one of those annoying people who scours the Internet for information before trying a place. We're cycling around Flanders in July, and part of my preparation will include googling good coffee in the local towns and cities. So it's no surprise that I found Tamper online first of all, searching for coffee in Sheffield, though we seldom go into the centre itself these days. I found myself particularly drawn to their history and general ethos; Jonathan came from New Zealand and set up shop here to give us a taste of the quality independent coffee shops of his homeland. Sometimes I think my other half quite fancies the idea himself, though in place of Kiwi Brunch we'd opt for South African cuisine.
We first tried Tamper on a Saturday morning, hoping to get there before it was too busy. Having been back since late on a Monday afternoon, I'm not sure a quiet time exists for Tamper, testament to its popularity and quality. So I'll get the downside out of the way; it's not the kind of place I would sit and waste hours reading magazines or messing about on my iPad. But if I want the best coffee Sheffield has to offer, it's top of the list (disclaimer: the blog is young, with plenty more places to try, but if consensus is to be believed this is a safe statement to make).
That morning I went for French toast - my favourite breakfasts involve bacon and maple syrup, so this was a no brainer, and considering I'd spun away 580kcal that morning already I made an exception to my 'no gluten' rule. I asked for no banana, and sure enough it came with no banana! I tried some from Nicky's plate though, feeling like I was missing out because surely it must be nice if Tamper decide so, and my 27.5 year long banana-less world came to an end. Just in time for my new fitness regime.
We sat in the window watching the world go by, but truth me told most of the world popped in for a coffee to stay or to go. In for a penny and all, we then had a delicious chocolate brownie to share.
Coffee wise I went for their favoured flat white, which was lovely. I usually go for ridiculously sweet coffee, and I've come to realise that that's mostly to counter the poor quality bitterness so many places end up serving. So this was syrup free and highly recommended. Nicky went for a long black (two espresso shots, with water on the side to pour as required), and enjoyed it immensely.
Second time round it was lunchtime, and my salami, mozzarella and pesto sandwich went down a treat with one of Jonathan's Iced Coffees - the most coffee tasting one I've had this side of the equator. It's even made with ice cream, which is something I've been searching for since my weeks in sunny Cape Town.
Nicky opted for a ham and cheese sandwich, both of which were served on 'rustic' boards, and enjoyed it with another long black. Worth saying as well that in his eyes, Tamper embodies 'all you need' in a coffee shop. Give it ten years and maybe that South African competition will appear...
Tamper only accept cash as payment, but with the nearby cash point it's not an issue. They use locally sourced products where available (Our Cow Molly milk and ice cream), which is always a bonus.
This place is definitely on our favourites list, and makes the trip into town worth it for a visit alone. They get everything right, including all the small things that so many places overlook. Here I'm including a simple greeting, even when busy, remembering details about orders, and ensuring all ingredients are actually on the menu so no surprises. Service is prompt and with a smile, ensuring customers' return.
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