A Refreshing Start for West London Summer: Cafe Linea
Taking inspiration from European arcade cafés and bistros, Cafe Linea transforms the space next to the Saatchi Gallery with a charming glow. Fully embracing the high floor height and luminous archway window views, it feels like stepping into an Italian palace garden – relaxed, cheerful, and bathed in light.
Picture rusticated brick walls flowing into smooth, white, curving domes; mint-green cupboards next to warm, yellow lamps; polished wooden tabletops that showcase the baroque swirl of natural grain patterns. Lounge chairs patterned with seashells, bouquets blooming in crystal vases. Long linen curtains drape to the floor, framing the exuberant greens of Duke of York Square in the summer sun.
Effortless elegance, with a playful touch of colours and curiosity.
The beverages and pastries echo the picturesque setting. The Linea Summer Spritz offers a lovely botanical bittersweet taste, sprinkled with the coolness of mint and cucumber – and indeed even more freshening to behold, fizzy and verdant. The gorgonzola, peach and walnut puff is a must-have. Delicate choux pastry filled with creamy gorgonzola and tiny fruit cubes, it melts into a summery bliss, and pairs well with the spritz.
Although I’m not seeking a full meal in the early afternoon, I cannot resist the temptation to order from the wide selection of tiny desserts on the counter. A hazelnut caramel choux and an English strawberry tart soon arrive. Despite their petite size, each is executed to perfection. Rich, creamy fillings in the hazelnut choux, and a layered sweet journey in the strawberry tart, from its thin gelatinous layer, to fresh strawberries and a buttery tartlet.
However, Cafe Linea is more than just a stylish spot for food. Look around the space, and you will find numerous artworks featuring foodstuffs and still lifes hanging gently behind chairs and along walls. The manager kindly leads me into another corridor where deep-toned walls feature a continuous exhibition of paintings, each part of a collaboration with Art Untamed and available for purchase. A thoughtful nod to its nearby art institutions, enhancing the Linea aesthetic experience.
Visiting Cafe Linea on its first day of opening, I already see it flourishing in the upcoming summer. A fantastic location, a delicious menu and impeccable interior, all topped off with a welcoming service, it is set to become a well-balanced culinary and artistic attraction.
