You’ve passed this corner a thousand times – cycling past the once florescent lit phone store right at the bend where the Wittervrowenstraat turns into the Biltstraat. But lately, you might have noticed something different about this unassuming corner.
Now, gorgeous green tiles on the Lucas coffee bar catch glimmers of sunlight. The smell of roasted coffee and fresh goodies waft out of the door as you bike past. People on laptops sit at the wooden bar pressed up against the window, and a little sign reading “coffee is always a good idea” seals the deal – you’re going in.
Lucas might be new to town, but they know how to appeal to the Utrechter. The inside is clean, modern, yet gezellig. The tables seem to be made out of old sewing desks – now painted turquoise and topped with dark slate. Behind the bar, floating wooden shelves pop against bright white walls that lighten this sometimes dark corner up.
The coffee is hot, and the tea is served in surprisingly modern pots. Each time you order a little cake or one of their gluten and dairy free goodies (and yes, they’re delicious) they bring it on a pretty little plate too – perfect for Instagram. There hasn’t been a time when the barista wasn’t friendly, chatted with me, and offered me their loyalty card (I’m a sucker for these).
Lucas is a great spot for a quick coffee or an afternoon catch up. I have yet to bring my laptop and camp out at the window seat, but those who I’ve seen there look pretty comfortable. So, what are you waiting for?
Wittevrouwenstraat 23 | website
Picture’s: Susanne Sterkenburg