As a (relatively) long-time Levvy resident, its fair to say youre not exactly spoilt for choice when it comes to dining and drinking in the neighbourhood (much as I love Nawaab curry buffet - seriously it rocks).
Imagine my surprise then, when one December morning, I happened upon what I can only describe as a slice of the Northern Quarter on the A6.
Trove , describe themselves as a husband and wife team who believe in good food. Sounds simple enough, and having dashed in as soon as I happened upon it, the offer and atmosphere seems to live up to the mission statement.
The interior is lovely - simple, clean, contemporary but with plenty of rustic, reclaimed and unique touches so its definitely not without soul.
Friendly, personal service and (importantly) excellent coffee, kick things off to a good start. Then theres very simple baked goods on offer. I tried a savoury goats cheese and veg tart despite the early hour to remedy a rather late night. The tart was fresh and tasty and the coffee expertly executed.
Theres a collection of original art created by Katy (wife), and upon closer inspection the big communal table that takes up most of the seating area has been made made from reclaimed wood by Marcus fair hand (husband), while the shelves are made from railway sleepers.
I ended up leaving with a beautiful framed piece of art and Katy chucked in a free Christmas decoration that Id been admiring - you cant say more neighbourly than that.
Trove have also created their own preserves (all organic and local) serve soups at lunch and have just installed a huge new bread oven Im told.
Perhaps at this stage, youre beginning to wonder whether this cool sounding coffee bar will work in Levenshulme, rather than the more obvious promised land for independent cafes - Chorlton, or the NQ? Coffee is one thing you might be scoffing, but reclaimed wood and organic preserves, in Levenshulme?! Ha!
Well I think it will provide a much needed little foodie retreat at this side of town. Theres a sense of refreshing simplicity at the place, and a real lack of affectation accessible to a wide variety of local clientele. What with the very good Pod on Albert Road, maybe the Levvie food revolution is starting?