Pod Espresso - Stafford

An absolutely amazing cafe that offers more than just an eggs benedict. Imagine smashed pumpkin with halloumi and a beetroot purée; sweet potato cakes with capsicum and tomato purée. Yum! Between the two, I think the pumpkin won, but it was a tough choice. <br/ <br/ Only letdown was the service they obviously knew their regulars, but for first timers, we did feel a bit invisible! You have to order at the counter, and even fetch your own table water.

SOUNDING SUPPORT. I begin my review in reply to another reviewer's comments. Firstly, not at all sure of the remark about the food having gone downhill – on the contrary I would have to disagree. For me, the flavour continues to delight and may I say pleases my tastebuds (in an orally orgasmic way) every time I'm there (sadly for me, I can only experience such pleasure on 2 anticipated days a week I count down the hours and minutes on those days, until I can enter into my 30 minutes of bliss). There, I encounter the agonizing decisions between which Turkish bread filling to have, along with those OMFG desserts to treat my 10,000 tastebuds to (never mind the fact on some days, I just about buy the shop out – minor details really, when you think about how many you have to satisfy).<br/ <br/ It’s all a bit of a frenzy in the decisions that need to be made, but between my tastebuds and my sanity (thus the 30 minutes of relaxing and recharging bliss) I not only count my blessings to experience such wonder, but appreciate the ‘Pod’ experience as a whole.<br/ <br/ Which leads me to my second response to the other reviewer’s comment. I think one of the reasons I love going to Pod Espresso so much, is not just about the food but also the service. Although I’d have to say, it really is less about service and more about the atmosphere – especially in the easy going style between staff and customers akin. Who wants prim and proper served with their coffee/food? It’s not a 5 star restaurant but a fun, chic, relaxing, refreshing and welcoming lil coffee shop. One where casual and carefree yet delightful and dedicated, is what makes Pod Espresso the hip place that it is. It holds a uniqueness that most coffee shops lack – you forget that it is exactly that and are constantly reminded, of their ability in allowing us let go of our stresses for a moment, whilst tucking in to some seriously sensational savouries and sweets. <br/ <br/ I feel sad for you that you found their conversation offensive – I myself enjoy the light hearted banter, even if there are a few of the ol’ cheeky comments thrown around from time to time. Makes for a nice change to have a genuine exchange amongst those who are a part of the Pod pool (staff and customers alike), as opposed to the pretentious service one has to endure too often, at other places of business in this current corporate climate. <br/ <br/ To Pod Espresso (as the vibrant vibed coffee shop that you are and to all the terrific staff that bring you to life), I say thank you for striving to continue to be and do all that you have to offer. You are an amazing, loving and wonderful stint in the mad rush of our day. To those who don’t appreciate your style – “Bye bye now” and thank you for making welcomed room, for all who do enjoy Pod Espresso’s effervescence. <br/ <br/ Keep up your fabulous flair Pod – you’re right on the mark!<br/ <br/ Cheers and best wishes, from Bec (DA).

Shortly after, my breakfast came out, beautifully presented with thick slices of cured salmon atop a pan-fried potato and pea feta cake. The generous portion of avocado was mixed with arugula and drizzled with yogurt dressing. The combination of the dish's tanginess and saltiness complemented the creamy avocado quite well. However, it would have been even better if the saltiness of the cured salmon could be toned down and its texture made a bit softer. Overall, it was a satisfying experience.

The food is quite good, and the sweet potato cakes are a must-try. There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan-friendly options available. The staff is friendly, and there's a wide variety of treats to choose from. I couldn't ask for anything more!

Love the coffee!<br/ Love the food!<br/ Love the service!<br/ Love the vibe!<br/ <br/ Visit a few times a week and never disappointed/ great value for money and the food is always fresh and delicious! Thanks for being amazing pod!