Pomegranate

The first thing to strike you about Pomegranate is its floor. Clean and earthy, its whitewashed stone brings memories of summers spent in cottages by the beach. This homey atmosphere spreads to the wooden tables with board games painted onto their surface, the warm art on the walls and the breakfast bar dividing kitchen and café. The setting reflects the food, which is equally nostalgic, fresh and wholesome. By combining local fruits and vegetables this café provides vegetarian 'fast slow food'. A spicy mushroom melt is aromatic, filling and freshly made to order, as are the endless combinations of smoothies and juices.

Chef and co-proprietor Nick takes pride in offering gourmet food at affordable prices. A baked quesadilla stuffed to burst for £3.50 satisfies larger appetites while a 25p toast caters to weight watchers.

Though mainly a lunch and breakfast café, the location can also be hired out for evening cookery demonstrations or parties, providing an alternative start to a night at Potterow's nearby bars and clubs.

Newington no longer lacks a gourmet café for discerning foodies. Pomegranate provides alternative, healthy choices to suit every niche, at a level of professionalism and quality that starts from the floor up. [Hamza Khan]