There’s nothing like a good spot of brunch, and I recently visited a cute café in Wales that’s known for serving up quality food. I can understand why the queue is always growing
The cosy brunch spot is located in Wales(Image: Katie Gupwell)
I have always loved going out for brunch. The thought of having a slow morning, with good food in a cosy café is just something that makes me feel warm inside, so it’s always great when you find somewhere special to visit.
Recently, I headed to a cute spot in Rhondda Cynon Taf that’s known for serving up some pretty good meals. While its social media channel makes every dish looks beyond tempting, there’s often also a queue outside the door when you drive by, and it seems there’s a reason why this little café is always so busy and bustling.
I arrived at the Pontyclun venue on a Saturday morning at around 9.30am. Despite only being open for 30 minutes, it was already half full and, by 10am, people were starting to queue for a table, with bodies pouring outside the door.
Having looked at the menu, I knew what I was going to order. The classic Eggs Benny, which included bacon and eggs on a toasted muffin, topped with Hollandaise sauce.
It came with some dressed rocket, and I also ordered some hash brown bites on the side for good measure, because life is always better when there are crispy potatoes on your plate.
The Eggs Benny was a treat(Image: Katie Gupwell)
In total, it came to £15, which is pretty reasonable for a quality brunch. My friend also opted for the Cinnamon Bun Pancakes, which were £12.50.
As for the taste, you couldn’t fault the flavour. The bacon was tender in the centre, yet crispy on the edges, and there was just the right amount of sauce, so nothing overwhelmed the stars of the show.
The eggs were also perfectly poached and the rocket (which I usually dislike) was a hit. Coated in a zingy dressing, it added a boost of unexpected life to the dish, and it was an unlikely tasty extra.
For me though, the best part were the hash brown bites. Piping hot in the centre, and crunchy on the outside, they were totally delicious and equally moreish.
And the pancakes? I’ll let the pictures speak for themselves, but they were said to be light, fluffy and sweet. If you like American-style pancakes, the team seem to have got the recipe mastered to perfection.
The pancakes looked amazing(Image: Katie Gupwell)
Perhaps what adds to the café’s charm is it’s about a lot more than just food. The staff are warm and super friendly, and it’s a cosy spot where you feel instantly comfortable.
The vibe is super relaxed, and you can even take your dog if you’ve been for a walk on a Saturday morning. In fact, you can buy your pooch a “puppuccino” if you fancy giving them a little treat.
You don’t need to be a local to tell there’s a great sense of community. From regulars popping in for a coffee to people meeting for a bite to the running club that gathers at the café on a Sunday morning, it’s clear it’s a social hub as well as a lovely eating spot.
Sometimes you come across a little eatery where the atmosphere is just as special as the food, and this is one of those places. At The Thirsty Elephant, the coffee will tantalise your taste buds and feed your soul.
While the food undoubtedly keeps people coming back, I can understand why so many aren’t afraid to queue to get in. A welcoming coffee spot is something that’s simply always worth waiting for.
