So bristol is all about the food and the drinks, and the cafe stops are no exception. Today the anorakgirl went back to a new place she had tried out in the week by St. Nicholas’ market: a new vintage space with boutique: Yesterday’s Clothing, cafe in Today’s Coffee and music venue space in Tomorrow’s music. So finally we have an alternative, independent cafe stop for when you’re in that middle part of the old town where you’re only options before had been chain franchises. Where is it? What is it called? Well this perfect space of chesterfield leather sofas and wing back chairs (perfect for reading), old lady’s chintz lampshades, reworked kitsch rural scenes and darling mismatched afternoon tea china is: THE BIRDCAGE (28 Clare St.) And the best part about it, even if that wasnt enough already, is Continue reading →

There might be a Metro, Evening Post, perhaps a Guardian left on the table of your typical Bristol cafe if you’re lucky. Never before until stepping foot inside The Birdcage on Clare Street have I found a Playboy. The edition on my table was from April 1987, featuring playmate of the month Anna Clark.

 

 

It’s little and surprising features like this from the fertile mind of 24-year-old owner Gorgina Haslam, that make The Birdcage one of the most significant and best new openings in Bristol city centre this year.

 

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“The hangout of choice for the arty party and style set”, proclaims the website of brand new venue The Birdcage – “a thriving creative scene and social hub in the heart of the city”. It’s great to see 28 Clare Street once again occupied, and by something a little different to the chain venues that make up most of its surroundings.

 

 

On their opening afternoon of Saturday, September 8th, a band had taken to the small stage area while customers relaxed with a coffee on the old Chesterfield sofas, or browsed the range of vintage items available for purchase, each of which is hand selected by the Birdcage team.

 

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