West 48

West 48 is a bright spark in an otherwise quiet residential thoroughfare. Scoot inside to nab a table, darkly lacquered against charcoal walls, where always-lovely flower arrangements pop against the earthy tones. An espresso of the Allpress Supremo blend has a marzipan aroma and big flavours of unsweetened cocoa and currants. From the tiny kitchen come sandwiches such as air-dried beef, pear and rocket, or smoked chicken and celery. West 48 also turns out silky lattes from their satellite stand at nearby independent supermarket Sims, complete with Sicilian biscotti from Dolcetti and Dench caramel tarts.