I’ve long been a fan of part-bike-shop and part-cafe Velo Domestique in Southbourne. If I’m being honest, I’m less interested in the bikes but VERY interested in the excellent coffee, Turkish eggs and twinkly ambience. While visiting the wonderful South Coast Makers Market and pop-up shop at the weekend, I was excited see Velo’s baby Lead Out next door. So I stepped right in.

With plenty of space and high ceilings, it has a definite industrial vibe. It has been cosied up with the addition of loads of plants, warm lighting and a massive wall mural in shades of green.

They serve espresso and filter speciality coffee by Bad Hand Coffee, Girls Who Grind Coffee and Caravan Coffee Roasters alongside a small but tasty menu which caters for vegans, veggies and gluten-free. We had avocado on sourdough which was elevated to a superior level with rocket, toasted seeds for a bit of crunch and chipotle oil for a lovely kick of heat. Proof, if it’s needed, that simple can be amazing. We also bagged the last heeeeaaavenly doughnut (chocolate, coconut and caramelised peanut), made by Small Block Doughnuts. Their tagline “all filler, no killer” is an apt description of the excellent filling to doughnut ratio.

Lead Out also sell bikes and cycling accessories, coffee beans, mugs and Velo Supplies (chipotle oil, chai syrup, etc.) so a great place to grab a tasty present or two.

Unit 7A, The Avenue Centre, Bournemouth