It’s great to see new restaurants and bars popping up around Aberdeen in an effort to revive the City Centre; but I certainly haven’t expected to stumble upon another quality-looking coffee shop just a few steps away from the Milk Jug!

But that’s exactly what happened after that visit; sadly, I was coffeed-out on that occasion, but my eyes must have glistened as I stopped for a minute to peek inside Mount Cafe; it looked stylish, artisan, and most definitely up my street.

I made it my next cafe destination a few weekends later – a grey late-winter day with little in the air to cheer you up, so why not have a decent cuppa at least…!

It was hard to judge how busy the place was as I rocked up at its door just after 3pm that Saturday, as the windows were all steamed up; no wonder – upon entry I discovered there were no seats left, except for the bar by the window. That was not an issue; the “bar” was exactly that – a thick wooden plank, but long enough to comfortably sit six people without touching knees.

That spaciousness was omni-present. There was a lot of open space between the door and the counter where a small pastry case was located, with a curated selection of sweet treats with something for everyone, but not overwhelmingly so. The tables were located to the right and behind the counter, with a lot of breathing room in between them; together with the high ceiling the interior felt very open, uncluttered and airy (if you forget that condensation behind you).

The barista at the till was impeccable – greeted me with a genuine welcoming smile, not too quickly but leaving no doubt all his attention was on me, ready to take my order whenever I was ready. I resisted the cake temptation and just ordered a mocha; I was advised then what I already knew – the bar was the only space available, which I was more than happy with.

My coffee arrived some 5min later and it was a joy to behold. Based on my experience so far I was all but certain it would be perfect – and it did not disappoint.

The first sensation was the rich taste: a perfect balance of nutty chocolate and coffee, that was so moreish, I was halfway through the cup before I knew it. The texture was luxuriously thick, but well blended – no frothy foam or grainy bits in this one – much of this down to the perfectly steamed milk, resulting in that gorgeous latte art that remained on top of the drink right until I devoured it on my last sip.

Within these next 5min it was all over, and I was seriously considering a chaser of a flat white or similar; but decided to leave it for next time. Because, without a doubt, I will be back and I shall be raving about this place to others. The coffee is great, the staff are lovely, the place is so relaxed, welcoming and undemanding.

Only after that visit did I go onto their website and realised the two members of staff I saw are both the owners; and – just like myself – they are passionate not only about coffee, but also hiking – hence the name for their cafe. I’m sold.

Step aside Kilau, you have been displaced as the best coffee shop in town (and that’s because Mount is open at weekends!)

To learn more about Mount, visit their website.