If you're in Bristol and on the lookout for a cozy yet vibrant café, Society Café on Narrow Quay should definitely be on your list. Nestled by the harbour, it combines picturesque views with a delicious menu that coffee aficionados rave about.
Customers like Maria Sousamli appreciate the talented baristas and the lively atmosphere, especially if you need a spot to work with free internet access. However, Grahame Irwin highlights that while the café buzzes with conversation, it may not offer the traditional warmth and coziness some visitors seek. Nevertheless, the coffee remains a standout feature—richly flavored and artfully presented.
Fans of sweet treats should not miss Kirsty Hood’s recommendation of the cinnamon pretzel, paired perfectly with their renowned dark hot chocolate, a highlight for Gabriella Muir. Whether you're looking for a quick caffeine fix or a place to unwind with a good book, Society Café proves to be an engaging venue. As Alex suggests, experimenting with their choice of coffee beans is definitely a must for a memorable experience. Prepare for a delightful visit that promises to keep you returning for more!
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
No wheelchair-accessible car park
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Serves great coffee
Serves great dessert
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Good for solo dining
Good for working on laptop
Offerings
Serves coffee
Serves healthy options
Quick bite
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Paid street parking
Pets
Dogs allowed
Photos
Reviews For Society Café
Maria Sousamli
Jun 23,2025
Lovely coffee and expert baristas. If you are looking for great views of the harbour go there. If you are looking to do work on the laptop also go there. If you are looking for free internet and a safe space to do some Work go there. The cafe provides these things, however it scores low on the “cosy” criterion. The amount of laptops and noise as well as very minimalist decor don’t make it the most warm place but I still do go often for the reasons I mentioned and will carry on doing so. They shut the outside area at 5pm for 5:30 closing
Gabriella Muir
Jun 2,2025
BEST HOT CHOCOLATE EVER The staff are so friendly. My go to cafe in Bristol! Specifically this society cafe, this is the best one! I’ve tried nearly every hot chocolate in Bristol and their dark hot chocolate wins!
Grahame Irwin
May 22,2025
We tried this place for morning coffee. It was lovely, comfortable seats and a buzzy atmosphere with lots of people enjoying conversations. Plenty of space for workers on phones and laptops. The coffee was delicious and really well presented and whilst we didn't have anything to eat, the cake and pastries looked delicious. I really enjoyed this place and look forward to revisiting it soon. Highly recommended.
Alex
Apr 19,2025
Great cafe, that offers a choice of beans to pick from. For flat white, I'd recommend a third shot of espresso to fully enjoy it, though. Do try their cold brew, it is absolutely fantastic.
Kirsty Hood
Apr 16,2025
Absolutely lovely cafe. The coffee is fantastic. Very friendly service. Highly recommend the cinnamon pretzel.
KRYSTAL ROY
Apr 14,2025
Not featured: coffee as I scarfed it down before I thought to take a photo. The vibes of this place were spot on. I appreciated them having 2 zones as 1 was a bit rowdy with little kids while the other was a bit more peaceful.
mari moutsopoulos
Apr 7,2025
Lush! One of my favs cafes in Bristol! The staff is always lovely and the coffee is always a treat! Choc banana bread and the apricot cake pair perfectly with the flat white. Vegan cakes and alternative milk. Good options for summer drinks and teas.
Robin MacPherson
Mar 12,2025
Lovely interior with tons of space that is very pleasant to sit and work in or meet a friend. The staff are very friendly and of all the cafes I’ve been to in Bristol, I find Society trains their employees very well overall in working with coffee. The coffee is very good, always having a selection featuring at least two roasters. They also offer a variety of brewing methods and will happily advise you if you need help, which is always appreciated. Amazing location as well, right next to the water. If you sit in the right spot you can even watch the boats just outside
Reviews For Society Café