IL piacere Caffè italiano in Redbridge

Regular here but I have to add this to my previous review. Sick and tired of how you allow people to just sit at the bar and take up all the space for those that want to order. It makes no sense to me how this is acceptable. I am a manager in hospitality and would personally never allow this as it shows priority to the OAP regulars that are used to behaving like they are prioritised due to lack of mobility. Correct me if I'm wrong but I believe what I am saying is true... Despite all this, I cannot fault those working at the bar who show great ability to recognise customers that come and queue behind the hoggers in the correct order which I find to be quite impressive. Hope this is taken on board🙏🏼

We enjoyed the food, loved the lemon drink. Good customer service, we will be back soon!

I usually love Costa Coffee's beverages, but my recent experience on a special day was quite disappointing. I decided to visit Costa Coffee to enjoy my own company. Unfortunately, the coffee tasted horrible. While I rarely use public or restaurant toilets, I generally find them clean. However, I was shocked when I entered the toilet at this Costa Coffee this south woodford branch. There was urine on the commode and floor, and tissues were scattered everywhere. To make matters worse, I saw a broom behind one of the tables inside. It was not hygienic at all.

I normally get coffee, a veg sandwich and something sweet usually however Was quite disappointed to see the lady who was handling sandwiches, bread and cakes touching everything bare hands at first I was like it’s fine if her hands are washed in between each handle but she was not washing in between she went from touching all different meat/ veg sandwiches with her bare hands and then to picking up cake slices with her barehands then to a loaf of bread to be sliced. All that cross Contamination was too much to see and I don’t know how she was not wearing gloves with each item she is handling or being told by someone or to even use tongs to pick up food. As someone who eats halal but veg from a non halal restaurant can’t be eating here any longer but this also applies to vegetarians and if they cater to vegans too. Otherwise staff and the environment is lovely can’t fault them. I’m sadden the handling of food is not up to standard and can no longer eat here unless changes are made.

I've been going here for my espresso fix and pastry, coffee is worth going for, it's strong, dark roast with a nice well rounded flavour, it's been a place I get my caffeine fix from