Shaman Bermonds Locke is the ideal destination for all-day dining, cosy catchups and productive co-working…
It is a crisp Autumn day as I meander through the streets of Bermondsey on my way to Shaman Bermonds Locke. I open the door and the smell of freshly brewed coffee envelopes me like a hug. I step inside and instantly feel a sense of calm wash over me. A cafe, co-working space and chillout zone, Shaman serves third-wave coffee, grab-and-go items, wine and cocktails. The design of the space is relaxed and cosy, with rustic, Nordic vibes and is the first of Shaman’s collaborations with London-based interior architecture studio Holloway Li. It aims to bring homage to nature’s wonder in both aesthetic and eco-responsibility, being as sustainable and environmentally friendly as possible. Concrete testing cubes which were destined for landfill serve as a plinth for six-metre long terrazzo tables ideal to work off, and bricks make the foundation for the lower surfaces surrounded by woven beanbags.
Shaman Bermonds Locke is designed as a multi-functional space. If the novelty of working from home has worn off, or you are just after a change of scenery, it is the perfect spot to escape to. Spend the day encased in your own little bubble where you can sip on delicious coffee and refuel on their all-day dining offerings such as artisanal sandwiches or salads and bowls. Alternatively, head with a friend for brunch where you can sip champagne and leisurely graze on their sharing platters. It is the perfect spot to get away from the craziness of 2020 and just slow down while feasting on diving food and drink options.
Shaman was created from a passion to bring the slow food movement to the masses. They aim to provide time-deprived urbanites with a range of easily accessible, artisanal ingredients at an affordable price point. They have a sustainable approach to cooking and take inspiration from Southern France, where long lunches are a fundamental daily pleasure. They work to support local food heroes and ensure that seasonality is essential.
I sink into a bean bag and order a tea, warming my hands on the mug. The skies are dark outside, and I think of how I could stay sitting here all day if I could. As I sip, I peruse the food menu, thinking how delicious each thing sounds. The menu here changes monthly, with lots of vegan and gluten-free options. Shaman puts wellness, nutrition and sustainability at the heart of what it does, and this is easy to see. Eventually, I settle for avocado on toast and am greeted with a delicious helping of crusty sourdough bread topped with avocado, creamy burrata and parsley. My friend selects a salad bowl, with roasted sweet potato & puy lentil, rocket, herb dressing and topped with toasted spiced seeds. As it has now passed midday and we are long overdue a catch-up, we indulge in a glass of fizz. The staff here are exceptional, always ready to help without being overbearing. Our food is divine, flavoursome and filling without being heavy on the stomach. Priced at under £8 each we are impressed with how high quality it is too.
Shaman Bermonds Locke is ideally located to explore some of the best spots in the city. It is a stone throw from the cobbled streets of Shad Thames and Maltby Street Market, as well as the more energetic Bermondsey Street where you can explore many bars, restaurants and art galleries.
It is with great reluctance that we finish up the last of our drinks and peer unwillingly to the grey weather just outside the windows. Rain is beginning to spit, and it couldn’t be more of a contrast to the cosy space we are currently sat in. Shaman is a space that has it all and more. I mentally plan my next week, so I can bring my notebook and laptop and enjoy a change of scenery as I work.
“One more for the road?” I ask my friend. The decision is effortless, and we settle back down to spend the rest of the afternoon under the spell of Shaman.
Shaman Bermonds Locke
153-157 Tower Bridge Rd
London, SE1 3LW
Opening Hours:
Monday to Tuesday 7 am – 10 pm
Wednesday to Friday 7 am – 7 pm
Saturday to Sunday 8 am – 7 pm
