Discover Rochdale’s best-kept coffee secret at Plume

Date published: 20 March 2018

The next time you’re in the mood for a cup of coffee, head on over to Plume, a quirky and independent coffee bar with a truly unique twist.

Originally a vaping and e-cigarette shop, Plume opened its doors in July 2017. The concept was quickly turned on its head; the change of direction soon becoming apparent, thanks to owner Mohammed ‘Shaf’ Shafiq’s taste in décor.

He laughed: “We opened on a Friday in July, and just days later we were a coffee shop.”

Only a few mementos remain of its previous life, including the name – a long cloud of smoke or vapour resembling a feather as it spreads from its point of origin.

Shaf explained: “We were originally going to be next to the Regal Moon, but found this location more accessible for potential e-cigarette customers. I’d been buying little bits here and there which I liked, like the teapots and the games. A couple of other vaping shops had opened around the same time we received our lease, and one of those closed around Christmas.”

Stepping into Plume is like stepping back through time. From the retro games and encyclopaedias to the upcycled foot rail, quirky handmade newspaper-print tables and a classic stack of vinyl, there isn’t a corner in Plume that hasn’t been touched by Shaf’s love of vintage memorabilia.

“Everything you see, I bought because it touched my nostalgic nerve. It reminded me of my youth. A lot of the vinyl records I bought myself between 1985 and 1989,” Shaf smiles.

Staffed by Carly and her daughter Nicole, the coffee bar has a small friendly ambience. Think of Plume as an extension to your living room, and you can instantly picture the vibe. It might be a cliché, but there is truly something for everyone in this magical wonderland.

Plume has quickly become well-known as the independent coffee shop to visit, and you needn’t worry if you avoid dairy as each coffee can be made with an alternative: the soya cappuccino comes highly recommended.

Plume also serves an array of assorted teas and deluxe hot chocolates by Whittard of Chelsea, including peanut butter, salted caramel, rocky road, chilli, and 70% cocoa: all of which can be made without dairy.

A vast range of white hot chocolates are also available, such as the exotic Mumbai spice, decadent crème brûlée, classic raspberry ripple and luxurious praline.

If you’re in the mood for a bite to eat, you can choose from sandwiches and paninis or traditionally baked crisp-yet-fluffy jacket potatoes with several classic fillings.

For those with a sweet tooth, the select menu of delicious baked goods would also compliment your coffee.

Once you have discovered the allure of Plume for yourself, you’re sure to return with company: after all, coffee and friends make the perfect blend.

Please check any allergies and dietary requirements before you order.

Plume is located just off Yorkshire Street, at 4 Union St, Rochdale OL16 1DY and is currently open from 9.00am to 4.30pm Monday to Saturday.

It will be open between 11.00am and 4.00pm on Sundays very soon.

http://plume-coffee-bar.business.site/