13th Note Café

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• What are these?

• Average price 2 courses:
   £8 (lunch)
   £11 (evening meal)
• House wine: £9.50 per bottle

• High point: Names of vegan coffees: soyccino, anyone?
• Low point: Music can overwhelm conversations
• Food served: Mon-Sun noon-10pm
• Bar open: Mon-Sun noon-midnight
• Open since: 1997
• Also offers: Vegetarian options (at least 25% of menu), Childrens portions, Childrens high chairs, Wheelchair access, Take away

The List's Eating & Drinking Guide 2008 is now in the shops.

This review is from the 2007 edition.

Set on arty King Street, this laid-back hang-out has long provided wholesome vegetarian food to hungry indie rock fans - as live sets are played in the basement seven nights a week while hip music is a permanent backdrop in the bar/café. Diners (notwithstanding any interest in the band scene) can enjoy light meals in the grungy bar from noon to 5pm or head through to the café area at the back for a wider menu. With its striking red walls, purple and blue banquettes and battered wooden floors and tables, the café has a bold boho feel. The menu draws on Middle Eastern, Asian and north African influences and offers a range of vegan options as well. Starters include giant potato croquettes oozing with gooey gruyère and pesto, while crispy spring rolls are stuffed with ginger-infused tofu and vegetables. Among the main courses, an aubergine, chickpea and coconut curry has earthy spiciness, while a platter of mezethes pairs warming falafels with refreshing tzatziki and hummus dips and salad. The pudding selection is small, but a dairy-free cheesecake ensures sweet-toothed vegans are not left out. Waiting staff are easy-going yet helpful.