Speaking of religion at the dinner table can be risky, but bear with me in this review, as it puts my next coffee venture in context. Over the years, I’ve visited Huntly Street on many occasions – specifically St Mary’s Cathedral; however, as a not-well-practicing Catholic, that frequency has been rather scarce throughout the year. Even so, during these visits I would spot a new place or two that sparked my interest: an art gallery or a vintage clothes shop, and also a cafe or two; but since my spirituality had my mind elsewhere on those occasions, I never paid these places a visit.

Not until this early autumn weekend, when I felt a calling – so to speak! – to get my coffee fix at Fable (and I don’t think the name is coincidental) – which had popped up in a recent kitchenette conversation. 

It’s a smallish place but still fitting good 5-6 tables of differing sizes; it shares an entrance corridor with a hairdresser’s in a converted townhouse. As I was placing my mocha order at the counter, behind it I caught a glimpse of a kitchen where fresh sandwiches were being prepared by one of the two male staff on duty. As I later learnt, the sandwiches were for a group of four twenty-somethings, exchanging cheery relationship stories; another girl next to my chosen seat was settled in with a coffee and a book; at some point, two young couples from a wedding party (the full Scottish attire on the men an obvious giveaway) came in to enjoy a cuppa. In short: the ambience was peaceful and all-welcoming. 

The other male barista pulled me out of my reverie by placing my order in front of me; the beautiful presentation made it clear it would be a good one. 

Indeed, the first sip was heavenly: rich flavour and texture, with a surprising and very pleasant zing of sea salt. It was a soft foam on top as opposed to an evenly blended concoction but that didn’t take away from the enjoyment; and as I drank my way through it, I saw the last undissolved chocolate bits on the bottom, speaking to the drink’s quality. The only minus was the aftertaste which was on the bitter side, which may be caused by the type of chocolate they use. 

Overall, however, I enjoyed my brief experience of Fable and wished I had brought my own book and ordered a pot of tea to stick around for longer in this little haven just off the high street. I’d definitely encourage you to take a detour from your day to give it a go!

To learn more about Fable, visit their Instagram page.