The Specialty Coffee Shop in Nottingham

The staff, coffee, tea and food here are perfect! I had a pretty crappy day yesterday and the staff picked up the vibe and made us feel incredibly welcome, such a kind and welcoming bunch of folks, highly recomend you go here!

Bitter coffee, very small, expensive

Really great brunch at the speciality cafe. Great birthday treat. The menu is small but quality is high when you get the food. Would recommend the Turkish eggs. Just the right amount of spice. French toast was also a hit. It’s a lovely little cafe but I would say that’s also the downside. You can’t escape the cold. Back door is open to the toilets and the front door gets left open. Not a place for a nesh. Overall a great place and would go back but maybe with a thicker jumper.

Stopped in for lunch on a busy Saturday, and the friendly staff helped find me a table. Amazing Turkish eggs and the tastiest coffee I’ve had in Nottingham. New favourite discovered!

Lovely flat white and Lilac muffin so tasty and excellent value. Staff Lovely and friendly and efficient. Definitely recommend.

Great place - great coffee. Had the batch filter - delicious. Highly recommended.

This place was perfect, I went for a latte and a ube blondi and was not disappointed. The coffee was smooth and the perfect size. The atmosphere was very relaxed and a perfect place to relax and people watch.

We were visiting nottingham and was actually heading to another food venue but saw this quirky cafe and thought we'd give it ago, so glad we did! Food was presented beautifully and tasted amazing. They had a great drink selection. Very reasonably priced too. Would highly recommend added this place to your list of places to try

This is an absolute gem of a place. The staff are friendly, the coffee excellent and the food is incredibly good.

delicious brunch, great coffee! Loved the hash browns. Vegan options ✨

coffee is highly recommended, the food was 10/7 i ordered Turkish egg

Great coffee! Service can be a bit slow at times, but it's worth the wait.

A bought a coffee (latte), it was superb. Nuff sed. Very Slight criticism: it could have been a tad hotter. But the coffee was great tasting and the milk was smooth and silky.

Amazing service, coffee was normal, nothing special .

Beautiful quirky place in a heart of Nottingham, delicious breakfast and great coffee, swift service and generous portions, lovely breakfast place to put on your map!

The food here was incredible! I've been a few times for coffee, which has always been great, so decided to stop by to try the brunch menu by Lilac Eatery and it did not disappoint. We shared the Potato Hash with Avocado, and Stick Toffee French Toast. The poached eggs were perfectly cooked and runny, and the hashbrown was crisp on the outside, but still beautifully light and potatoey on the inside. The addition of cheese sauce gave it a lovely creamy taste without being overly cheesy or intense. The French toast was a game changer. The toast itself was pillowy and light swimming in a pool of rich, decadent sticky toffee sauce. In between the layers of toast, there was a hint of something salty that perfectly balanced against the sweetness of the sauce. It came with a good amount of mascarpone and strawberries, which rounded off each bite. I would 100% order this again, however I don't think I could finish it to myself, it's definitely a sharing dish for me. This time, I decided to try the chai instead of coffee. It was a lovely warming drink, with a good spiced flavour. I would say that the food was a bit slow to come out, so we finished our drinks quite a bit before. It was busy when we arrived, with all the tables full, so there was possibly a backlog in the kitchen. I think if the food hadn't been so impeccable I might have been put off, but it was definitely worth the wait and it won't put me off of visiting again to try some other menu items.

Very good food, very good coffee and excellent service. The staff is super friendly.

The Lilac (popup) - beats any brunch you'll ever have! Great food and coffee.

A place where both the coffee and food are increible! With Lilac Eatery currently working the kitchen, the food is special. The turkish eggs were some of the best I have had! The coffee is also great, I have had a few different drinks from the and all have been really well made. The pour over I have from the source in Edinburgh was some of the best coffee I have tried. Definitely one of the best cafes in Nottingham!

Breakfast/Brunch: 10/10 Coffee: 100/10

2nd visit. Both were equally fabulous. Food so delicious. I had Turkish eggs 1st visit. This time Shakshuka with hash brown side. Incredible. Match latte hot or cold both amazing. Also chai iced latte delish. Service genuinely friendly. My go to for city brunch or lunch.

We called in recently and the friendly guy told us to take a seat. (Only 2 staff) The table we seated at was dirty and had not been cleared. It felt uncomfortable sitting there, so i grabbed a napkin to handle the used cups and took them to the reception counter. I was told someone will clear the table. Eventually a woman came and removed the items, but she could have brought a clean cloth to wipe down the obvious wet stains on the table. We sat for 8 or so minutes and after looking at the ‘stained’ menu we decided to leave. Why does these eateries drop the ball! 😡

The most delicious oat latte I've ever had, thank you! X

Friendly greeting and friendly service made for a good experience. I personally think their Turkish eggs are some of the best I’ve ever had. The cherry pie was also delicious! Highly recommend.

Was excited to try after seeing some good reviews on Instagram but was left disappointed with the food which was fine but simply that. With such a strong brunch scene in Nottingham I was left wanting more.

Went here for brunch the other day - phenomenal food, good coffee, overall great experience. Would recommend.

Has to be the best brunch in the Midlands!

An unmissable café. The Specialty is tucked away on a little side street branching off Market Square, so it might be easy to overlook if you were only visiting Nottingham for a quick tour, but you’d be doing yourself an immense disservice if you didn’t at least stop in for a latte. The staff at the Specialty are welcoming and knowledgeable, and their coffee never fails to make my heart sing. If, like me, you are the type of person who loves to maintain a proper home setup for making coffee, this is an ideal place to top up on beans with both more traditional and more artisan flavours on offer (and they don’t neglect their decaf beans, which makes me very happy!) They also have a selection of lovely pastries and cakes, and a very good lunch/brunch menu - I recommend the turkish eggs! Speaking of turkish eggs, I came on an afternoon that had been somewhat fraught and stressful for me, ordered some eggs to perk myself up, and promptly realised I needed to leave for an appointment and didn’t have time to eat in. The angels at the Specialty took care to pack my order in a double box and clingfilm, meaning I could enjoy a beautiful meal on the tram with no fear of leakage. Thank you for making my day so much better. My singular gripe with the Specialty is that I don’t live right next door to it, though that’s probably healthier for my bank account…

Didn’t like the vibe for a hijabi girl. people and staff are not welcoming .. sorry

Very good coffee, and the French toast was nice too!

This is probably the best coffee in Nottingham. Staff are also always friendly.

Great coffee and lovely staff, nothing to fault and would love to be back!

Walked in and pretty much walked out after being ignored for five minutes at the counter and waiting with children. No acknowledgement of our existence and only wanted to take out too. I will remember not to wear my cloak of invisibility next time and see if that improves.

Amazing brunch! French toast was beautiful

Came here to try their new lunch (brunch) menu. Had the potato hash. The food is phenomenal. Cannot recommend highly enough.

Great coffee and a lovely team 🌸

Kind and gentle staff. Tried gesha beans hand dripped and it was amazing.

Delicious coffee, and a warm welcome.

Food was excellent, service was quite slow due to only 2 members of staff, but the staff were lovely.

Food and coffee are excellent but the service is very slow and disorganised

The potato hash was one of the best breakfasts I’ve ever had. Very nice coffee and the staff were super friendly

Amazing Turkish eggs, good coffee. Friendly staff.

Great breakfast over the bank holiday weekend and the Speciality Coffee and Eatery with the Lilac Eatery. We had the potato hash with avocado and eggs, it was so good! The coffee was amazing too. Will definitely be back!

A great little cafe serving amazing french toast. Make sure you book in advance as it's a popular place!

An aesthetic, cosy cafe just a ways away from city centre. Staff are polite but it is quite busy on weekends, as expected, and it's not huge, so it gets crowded quick. The treats are amazing though - they seem to have different things in rotation which is nice. I look forward to coming back sometime soon!

stephen is an adventurous barista, showcasing the best coffee from all over the world, the conversation is easy and he always makes for interesting conversation. i will return.

The pompous owner was unprofessional; foul-mouthed, though not to me but his workers/friends, I found his incessant and loud swearing soured the atmosphere. Coffee was served first and fast but I was left to wait for a good 8 minutes before having to enquire about the cakes I ordered (plus a canned drink) and was then met with unexpected sass from said owner. Coffee ran cold before I received the one slice of cake. Speaking of the coffee - it’s mediocre at best and tasteless at worst. There’s no ice, which I do believe is standard for a coffee shop to offer, especially since the weather is warming up now. Orange cake tasted solely like bitter orange pith and nothing else, texture was questionably dough-y. Food was quite nice, though that doesn’t warrant a return - they did good hiring Lilac Eatery since it’s their only saving grace. I hope they are given the credit they deserve!

The coffee was already good but now there's potato hash too. The speciality, more like yummy town. (Also the barista on today was absolutely delightful)

We had the most delicious breakfast here! The Turkish eggs are absolutely amazing. 10/10! Great veggie and gluten free options too. Friendly service. We can’t wait to come back!

The cinnamon bun was a little dry, but nice. All reasonably priced for a nice coffee shop. I would definitely recommend coming here and i come back again. Plus the staff are very nice. It can get busy and it may be hard to get a seat.

coffe has always been chefs kiss, but now they have breakfast too! we loved it so much. amd a cheesecake 😍🎂 location is great, by the castle just a little out of a bust centre the only thing the place could be heated better

10/10 coffee and food. Good brunch!

Absolutely fantastic coffee shop definitely one of the best in nottingham! Excellent coffee knowledge and amazing cakes as well I unfortunately didn’t catch the baristas name but he was great and even gave a fantastic recommendation for v60 and aeropress which me and my friend took his advice on and were definitely not disappointed! If the barista reads this review it was lovely chatting to you, please let me know when you want to look at that new pc for the strategy games!

Nestled in the heart of Nottingham, Speciality Coffee is a true coffee lover's paradise. From the moment you step inside, the inviting ambiance, friendly staff, and the irresistible aroma of freshly brewed coffee create an experience that goes beyond the ordinary. The flat white here is nothing short of perfection – a delicate dance of velvety espresso and expertly steamed milk that leaves a lasting impression. It has become my go-to choice, and paired with the diverse menu of delectable treats, Speciality Coffee offers a culinary journey that caters to every palate. The attention to detail, warm customer service, and a genuine sense of community make this coffee shop a standout destination for those seeking not just a cup of coffee but an immersive and delightful experience.

This place is what coffee shops are all about! The owners are incredibly passionate about quality coffee and strive for perfection and take massive pride in providing the perfect coffee! I have had many espressi in many places and the espresso that is crafted here is easily as good if not better than ones I have had in Italy. I cannot speak highly enough about this place. Long live the small, independent coffee shop! It puts all of the coffee chains to shame!

Very good coffee and brownie. You can also charge your laptop there & it's a pleasant atmosphere to work in.

Great latte. Light, smooth, full of flavour. Nice guys in there too. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

The coffee and sweet treats are immaculate and always hit the spot. The vibe is super relaxed and welcoming, perfect for doing some work or catching up with friends. Baz and Steven are the best barristas anyone could ask for, they're super knowledgeable, super friendly, and provide the best service. And might I add that the coffee art is beautiful and clearly made with love.

Great independent place with lovely coffee and service but please don’t be tempted to save a few pennies by scrimping on the filling in the sandwiches. The turkey one in particular needs at least double in there. If so then I will have it again as the herby foccacia is is lovely but at the moment that’s all it is. Easily fixed and I look forward to my next visit. 👍

One of the BEST Café in Nottingham Love the flat white Alyaws satisfied Friendly barista Great interior design

Great coffee, central location and trendy cute cafe. Great to sit and work, meet up with friends or read a book alone. Definitely will be coming back soon!

The coffee shop exudes a serene atmosphere, accompanied by impeccable service. However, I wish there were a wider variety of food options available. My order of a brawny and chai latte was satisfactory, and the cheesecake I tried was particularly delightful.

Have been coming here for almost a year, and can't recommend it enough. There's always something new to try, baristas are friendly and (as at least one reviewer has already mentioned) you can steal a bit of winter sunlight through the windows over the magic they whip up. Food's nice, too, but I wish they'd bring back the vegan roast veggie sandwiches!

Popped into this lovely place, a very charming gentleman behind the counter, coffee was superb, atmosphere nice and relaxed, very well recommended.

Terrible service, overpriced food and on top of that rude staff members. Definitely not coming back again

Tucked away in the heart of Nottingham, this little hidden gem of a specialty coffee shop is a delightful discovery for anyone seeking a refined coffee experience. From the moment you step through the door, you're enveloped in an atmosphere that exudes warmth and charm. The true highlight of this coffee haven lies in its commitment to serving fine quality coffee. Every sip is a journey through rich and robust flavors, a testament to the dedication of the baristas who carefully select and skillfully craft each cup. The attention to detail in brewing is evident, making it a haven for coffee connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike. Adding to the allure of this charming establishment is the exquisite pottery that cradles your coffee. The carefully chosen cups and saucers are not just vessels but works of art that elevate the entire drinking experience. It's a visual feast that complements the aromatic pleasures of the coffee, turning each visit into a multisensory delight. The ambiance of the coffee shop is further enhanced by the thoughtful selection of background music. The tunes, like a well-curated playlist, create a harmonious backdrop to your coffee escapade. The balance between the music and the gentle hum of conversation creates an inviting space, perfect for solitary reflection or friendly gatherings. What truly sets this establishment apart, however, is its team of polite and friendly staff. Their genuine passion for coffee and commitment to customer service shine through in every interaction. Whether you're a seasoned coffee aficionado with specific preferences or a newcomer seeking guidance, the staff's expertise and welcoming demeanor make you feel right at home. The level of customer care extends beyond just the coffee – it encompasses the entire experience. From offering personalized recommendations to patiently answering questions about the origin of the beans, the staff goes above and beyond to ensure that each visitor leaves not only with a satisfied palate but also with a newfound appreciation for the world of specialty coffee. The attention to detail is also evident in the cozy and inviting interior. The decor, a blend of modern aesthetics and rustic charm, provides a comfortable setting for patrons to unwind. Whether you're seeking a quiet corner for some solo work or catching up with friends, the coffee shop's layout caters to various preferences, making it a versatile space for all occasions. In a world where coffee chains dominate the landscape, this specialty coffee shop stands as a beacon of authenticity and excellence. It's not just a place to grab a quick caffeine fix; it's an experience that celebrates the artistry of coffee making and the joy of savoring each cup. The commitment to quality, paired with the welcoming ambiance and attentive staff, makes this hidden gem a destination worth seeking out for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life, one cup of coffee at a time.

The worst customer service I've ever experienced, besides waiting for a tea for 30 mins!!!! I had to remind the personnel about our order as they forgot about it chatting to each other. How long does it really take to boil water and putting tea in there??? the personnel pretty much kicked us out because apparently we've been there "too long". Never going back there and would not recommend to anyone!!! Please go to 200 Degrees coffee instead, you get much better service for the value you pay

The barista was so nice and friendly. I ordered a special bean and he explained how it tasted detailedly. And of course the coffee was really good. the sandwich was a bit too salty for me. The atmosphere was so nice quiet and cosy. You can bring your laptop and there are plugs next to the tables. Overall, recommend this place!!!!

Found another very nice, independent, coffee place. Great service, peaceful when I went midweek but also seen it bustling on Saturdays. Good decor and music which wasn't too loud.

A local nice especiality cafe..

So good that I almost don’t want anyone else to know about it. Great pour over and exceptionally warm and knowledgable owner. I haven’t had a comparable coffee. Though they catering to all tastes, I had a really funky barrel fermented bean that broke my mind a little - superb!

Lovely place, relaxing atmosphere, need to do some work and it was perfect. Hot chocolate was amazing 🤩

Lovely cup of coffee, will definitely visit there again.

Delicious amazing variation of coffees. Was served with contagious enthusiasm. Very glad I walked in! I would recommend to anyone especially black coffee, pour over and specialty coffee fans.

Dazzlingly good coffee. In fact, the whole experience was wonderful. Sat in a sunny window with an amazing playlist... it was the best possible use of those few minutes on a Friday afternoon. Wonderful.

Might had one of the best espresso I ever had there :)

Gorgeous place with a perfect, relaxed atmosphere. Staff are extremely welcoming and kind, only had the matcha but it was perfect

Not much selection, no atmosphere, didn't stay for coffee at the end

Buen sitio para ir a tomar un café de especialidad

A lovely cafe with a great vibe. Impressed how they took the time to make matcha properly and it was delicious. Lovely mozzarella toasties too.

Justifiably busy due to the excellent coffee. Polite and friendly staff.

I really like the coffee and environment there. Staff is so experienced. Definitely will visit again!

Four of us went for a coffee and tea. The long black is awesome 🙂

Every time! Great coffee, matcha! And amazing focaccia sandwiches. Worth coming.

As someone who considers myself not a coffee drinker, it was a delicious espresso. Only ever had better coffee from an Italian 😂🤤

Lovely staff, perfect atmosphere, amazing latte! 🫶🏽🤍

Came here a while ago, shortly after they opened, really nice staff and great drinks.

Very chilled place to relax or read

Really good vegan cakes & coffee. Friendly staff.

I ordered a V60 fruit flavour but I didn't like it so I ask the barrister to change my order to another beans and it was Ethiopian, plus you change my order without paying anything and I really like it.

Great coffee roasts which change regularly, staff are all friendly, small selection of really nice food like focaccia sandwiches, pastry BUT the local cheesecake is incredible, definitely have the cheesecake. Massive plus for being dog friendly.

Orange cake is a must try! Coffee is good. The barista is very friendly. It is my favourite café in Nottingham now.

Great range of speciality coffees. Staff are really friendly and welcoming. I recommend the cheesecake and a pour over!

The most gorgeous latte I’ve ever had. Sensible pricing. £3.80 for an oat milk latte. The coffee was at the perfect temperature for drinking. I thoroughly enjoyed. The barista was also very friendly and kind who had great customer service. Overall great experience and will come again!

The coffee it's ok, nothing special. They have really really good cakes. But the service... Oh, the service is terrible. Maybe some people like the cozyness of the place, but we definitely decided to never go back there, because it's impossible to get you coffee in a decent amount of time, the employees are always talking with people/friends and working super slowly. It always takes forever. Last time we actually counted the amount of time, it took 25 minutes for just 2 coffees. I understand that the barista had some previous orders, but If we would have been talking with a friend and getting distracted that much, I'm pretty sure we could have get our order in half the amount of time, even working in a chill way.

I can't recommend this place enough. If you love specialty coffee this is the place. Baristas are so knowledgeable and amazing they provide a full explanation on what you'll be drinking and recommend based on what you like. Cakes are so delicious too. Great roasteries are served and quality is always excellent. My favourite cafe for sure.

The coffee is really good, the baristas are so friendly and welcoming plus the music they play is just 11/10. Also love how much natural lights comes into the cafe. Cannot recommend this place enough :) Thank you, will be back when I visit Notts again !

Coffee offering is fantastic, great range of beans available for pour overs. Staff are friendly & knowledgeable. Flooded with natural light, I could sit in the window people watching all day!

Nice coffee and cafe but service was disappointing. I don't mind a wait when it's busy but seeing the barista prioritise takeaway orders after yours and waiting 15 minutes for your drink is a bit much. Shame

Dog friendly place to come to catch up with friends! The coffee is delicious and the cheese cake is the best thing I've eaten!