Nestled in the heart of Whitefriargate, the recently opened Calla is a well-placed, novel, and well-timed addition to the city’s culinary scene. A blend of an eatery, cocktail bar, and coffee shop, Calla offers patrons a fantastic experience that sets a new benchmark for Whitefriargate’s food scene.
Entering Calla, you are immediately greeted by an open-plan, light-filled interior, exuding an inviting and comfortable ambience. Thanks to the generously proportioned windows along the front and side, Calla basks in ample natural light, creating a welcoming environment ideal for a leisurely lunch in the Summer sun, or an intimate dinner during the cool evenings.
Calla’s menu is concise yet diverse, and manages to showcase a wide array of gastronomic delights that’s already growing. Between our visit and this article, they’ve added dirty dawgs and loaded nachos to the menu, and we’re looking forward to seeing what comes next.
Adding to its appeal is Calla’s commitment to catering to a wide variety of dietary preferences. With gluten-free options available for all sandwiches and an ample selection of vegetarian dishes, it’s clear that inclusivity is a priority here.
During our visit, we savoured the BBQ Pork 5 Way, toasted bread encasing 5 varieties of pork to make a deliciously smoky, cheesy bbq sarnie. The Vegetarian Eggs Benedict was a delightful surprise, maintaining the iconic dish’s comforting creaminess without compromising on flavour. And then there was the Dagwood, a colossal sandwich that could easily become a favourite among those with a hearty appetite.
Complementing the rich, layered flavours of the food, Calla’s drink menu was no less impressive. From the nostalgic sweetness of the Milky Bar Milkshake to the fruity tang of the Raspberry Daiquiri, and the tropical allure of a non-alcoholic Piña Colada, each sip of the drinks we tried was a symphony of flavours that further enhanced our dining experience.
Calla’s timely opening on Whitefriargate, just before the Summer Holidays, is a delightful gift for locals and tourists alike. Its cool, spacious interior is the perfect respite from the summer heat, while its flavorful food and drink selections make it a go-to spot for those seeking gastronomic adventure.
So, why not visit this charming new locale? Whether it’s for a quick coffee, a hearty lunch, a chilled cocktail, or all three, Calla is sure to impress. Give it a try, and let us know what you think!
