Café Buongiorno

Dundee City centre may not immediately spring to mind when looking for a decent coffee shop, but Café Buongiorno is a pleasant surprise.  Although the view (of a multi-story car-park) is not exactly glamorous, the street-side setting provides plenty of opportunity for people-watching, if you get a window seat.

 Food wise, there is a good menu varying from huge sandwiches (about £5) to something more substantial (up to £11).  There is an excellent range of choice for vegetarians.  Finally, and most importantly, the service tends to be prompt, and usually with a smile.

The décor is a bit mixed in genre, wicker alongside neon, but somehow it all comes together. The overall effect is relaxed and friendly.

Why would I go there? Perhaps for the amazing ‘special’ hot chocolate: order one and a vision of whipped cream, marshmallows and lashings of chocolate sauce will soon materialise at your side.

Any negatives? The ambiance is somewhat marred by the harsh sounds of the local radio station and its annoying advertising. However, this is a minor point and apart from a poor dead yucca plant in the corner, there is little to complain about in Café Buongiorno.

Before or After: 
1. Take a left when leaving Café Buongiorno and you will arrive at Reform Street which will take you down to the town square.  Here you will find the Overgate shopping centre, the Caird Hall and a ‘life-sized’ statue of Desperate Dan!  Taking a right from Café Buongiorno will take you in the direction of the Verdant Works.  Just follow the road round to the right until you reach Ward Street, turn left and cross the busy Marketgait road onto Guthrie Street and then keep walking until you see West Henderson’s Wynd on your right.
2. Towards the waterfront there are the Frigate Unicorn and RRS Discovery to explore, as well as a long riverside walk.  Although, be warned, this is perhaps best saved for days when the wind isn’t too harsh.
3. The Law (the top of the hill on which Dundee is built) is perhaps the most rewarding place to walk to.  The brunt of the journey may not be through the nicest of scenes, but once at the top, a spectacular view of the whole of Dundee and the area surrounding it awaits.  This is also accessible by car, should the trek not appeal.

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