Sheer Coffee: A Wabi-Sabi Hideaway in the Heart of Soho

Hidden away on Peel Street, Sheer Coffee is a labour of love from local duo Mavis and Luke, who turned their global travels — and a shared dream — into a calming Japanese-inspired café. Opened in January, Sheer is both a reflection of their passion for coffee and an ode to the wabi-sabi aesthetic: wood-grain textures, leafy greens, and handcrafted cups all help create a sense of thoughtful imperfection and serenity.

The beans are sourced from Brazil and Ethiopia, offering nutty, almond-toffee notes on one hand, and bright, fruity hints of passionfruit and jasmine on the other. Whether you’re a black coffee purist or someone who loves creative seasonal brews, Sheer has something that speaks to both heart and palate.

Summer visitors should try the Lazy Lemonade — a refreshing signature that blends lemon soda with a fruity espresso shot for an uplifting caffeine kick. Another highlight is their toast menu, inspired by Nagoya’s famous Ogura toast. Served on fluffy local tangzhong bread, lightly spread with mayo before toasting, the Hokkaido red bean and butter version is a standout: perfectly balanced between sweet and savoury.

The café’s small but refined menu also features hojicha walnut scones, matcha and maple lattes, and warm savoury options like tuna melts. Sheer is the kind of place that rewards slowing down. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or lingering over toast and tea, it’s a slice of calm in the city — made for those who appreciate the quiet details.