Quoting my work colleague Matthew, “Rosemount is the place to be, it seems.” Here we have yet another coffee shop in this charming – and, evidently, completely self-sufficient – area in central Aberdeen. And this one is very new indeed as it had only been on the go a couple of months when I visited.

It was a Saturday, mid-afternoon with about 90min till closing, but when I arrived at the door, I felt the familiar sense of dread caused by venues closing prematurely. At first it seemed there was no activity nor light inside (which in itself was not an issue with the summer spoiling us in 2026); but then I noticed a person behind the counter so I tried the door knob – and was relieved to learn the cafe was, indeed, still open.

It is a very compact venue – quite intimate considering the limited seating, of which two are funky chairs on the low side; the quaint feel extends to rest of the decor and furnishings, as well as the artwork, crockery and other decorative items on sale in this “slow-living café and studio”. It’s all about clean colours, minimalism and geometry, which gives off a Scandi vibe which I am always happy to embrace.

The size of the venue wasn’t an issue during my visit as I was the sole patron; I still chose a window sill seat, not feeling the confidence to try out the woven deck chair in the middle and preferring to bask in the sunshine with views of lazy Rosemount at the weekend.

Not seeing a mocha on the menu, I asked if it was an option; in return I received a series of questions: Would I prefer 50/50 chocolate to coffee ratio or different? Hot or iced? Any specific milk type? And the kicker: it’s only natural, unsweetened cocoa that they use, is that OK?

That last one was a first and I predicted this might not be a fair comparison with other mochas on A Black Spot; but I was already committed – as was the owner (who I later learnt is named Sofya).

The presentation was another surprise, resembling a cool summer drink; and yet, drinking a hot (not scalding) drink from a glass through a straw was oddly satisfying.

All of this compounded confusion on my tastebuds as I took that first sip, expecting a bitter, dry cocoa mouthfeel. Therein came the third surprise – it was actually a very enjoyable beverage!

Sofya – who had earlier admitted she herself does not drink coffee – was forthcoming in making the experience more enjoyable by pointing out where the different varieties of sugar were available, but I had no need for it. Of course, it did not taste like a mocha I’m used to drinking, but it was no hardship finishing it at a good pace. The temperature was right for drinking and while it lacked the sweetness of chocolate (no surprise there!), the milk smoothed out the edges, blending a pretty smooth, decadent concoction.

What’s probably most surpising about Rosemount is that each venue I’ve been to has its own unique feel (and quirks) and SLŌ fits right into the fabric of this area. I truly hope it is a success for Sofya because she made me feel very welcome yet completely relaxed during my short visit; and I’d say that’s what the slow-living concept is all about!

To find out more about SLŌ Café & Studio, visit their Instagram page.