Nestled within Toynbee Studios on Commercial Street, Aldgate, East London, Alba Caffè & Event Space is an independent, female-run establishment that seamlessly blends Mediterranean café culture with a contemporary British twist. Managed by Phoebe Hunt and Chef Jessica Young, the café's name, 'Alba', is inspired by the Italian word for 'sunrise' and 'new beginnings', reflecting its ethos of sustainability, hospitality, and generosity.
The interior of Alba Caffè exudes a bright, breezy, and unpretentious atmosphere, reminiscent of Mediterranean cafés. Situated within the Artsadmin Canteen, the space is sun-drenched and attracts creatives from across the capital. The café features large Victorian windows and peeling walls, filled with plants, and looks out onto a leafy courtyard where patrons can sit during the summer.
Alba Caffè offers a weekly changing menu of Italian-inspired salads, slow-rise sourdough focaccia sandwiches, hearty soups, and signature bakes. The café is committed to using high-quality, ethically sourced ingredients, including Cacklebean Eggs from the Cotswolds, Estate Dairy milk and yoghurt from Norfolk, free-range herb-fed chicken from Perry’s Butcher in Spitalfields Market, and fresh vegetables from Ted’s Veg. Their coffee is roasted by Climpson & Sons in East London, and sourdough loaves are sourced from E5 Bakehouse, both delivered by bicycle to minimise environmental impact.
The menu is thoughtfully curated to cater to various dietary preferences, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Patrons can enjoy nourishing soups, savoury galettes, and freshly baked focaccia sandwiches. The café also offers a delectable selection of homemade cakes and pastries, such as brown butter and tahini blondies, which have received high praise from visitors.
Beyond its daily offerings, Alba Caffè hosts a series of events, including book clubs, movie nights, pasta-making classes, seasonal supper clubs, live music nights, and Thursday Aperitivo nights at The Whitechapel Gallery. These events foster a sense of community and provide patrons with enriching experiences that extend beyond the culinary.