Is coffee the future of socialising? This stylish central London destination shows it could be

Maybe you’ve heard about the coffee parties Gen Z are choosing over nightclubs. Or perhaps evenings spent at the pub have started to feel a bit repetitive. It might even be because of a busy calendar and family schedule that traditional nights out are less feasible now. But whatever the reason might be, for more and more of us, coffee culture is becoming a cornerstone of our social lives.

Going on a first date? A casual coffee feels like much less pressure. Want to catch up with friends without the prospect of a hangover and the spending regrets? A couple of flat whites are far more cost-effective.

In recent years, the humble cup of coffee has transformed from a quick necessity before you head out the door into an important daily ritual, treat or event, with seasonal menus and trendy cafés regularly becoming viral hits. In fact, coffee has now overtaken tea as the UK’s favourite hot drink, with a whopping 98 million cups drunk each day.

And with so much to choose from – from ever-expanding drink options and fun cocktails to premium coffee experiences and speciality events – it’s no surprise that coffee is not only playing a bigger role in our daytime socialising, but also during the evening.

Enter Lavazza’s stylish central London Flagship. The iconic Italian coffee brand’s two-storey Great Marlborough Street space is much more than just a break to enjoy a quick espresso and a snack.

With a menu featuring sweet treats created in collaboration with Italian pastry chefs and a drink selection that caters to all tastes, it’s a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience an authentic Italian coffee and gastronomy experience.

Overlooking the iconic Liberty department store, the destination is part coffee haven, part event venue – providing ample choices for businesses to host get-togethers, and with the festive season fast approaching, Lavazza is a great setting to plan an unforgettable event in a distinctive setting.

Forget the predictable pub meal so often chosen for the annual festive celebrations – Lavazza offers something much more memorable. Package options can be tailored to your needs. The ground floor space accommodates up to 100 guests standing or 45 seated, with a mix of armchairs and sofas for added comfort. The lounge dining area on the first floor accommodates approximately 60 guests standing or 30 seated, offering an ideal setting for more intimate gatherings.

Whether you want to serve guests a menu curated by Michelin-starred chef Federico Zanasi or try some of inventive cocktails created by the mixologists (paired with nibbles), there are plenty of ways to customise. Culinary highlights include the tuna tataki and octopus with chickpeas – and the sweet treats are unsurprisingly tempting.

You can choose to host on the first floor – an airy space overlooking Liberty, which sparkles with festive displays come Christmas time – or, for smaller groups, opt for the ground floor, home to the immersive 1895 Blue area and Pillar of Aroma space. The grand coffee station sits in the middle of the room, where a stunning constellation of pendant lights adds to the already-impressive décor – think Italian heritage meets London cool.

Not only does it offer a new way to socialise and celebrate in the heart of the city, but it’s also inclusive. For those who choose not to drink alcohol, there are plenty of non-alcoholic options to try while still catering to guests who want to enjoy a cocktail or two.

Ever since it was founded back in 1895 in Turin, Lavazza has been at the cutting-edge of coffee innovation. And the brand’s own coffelier – that’s coffee sommelier, if you weren’t sure – are dedicated to keeping up with the developments in the industry, incorporating emerging trends into their extensive menu.

So as well as the classics, they offer plenty of other delicious options including nitro cold brews, regional specialities, pistachio cappuccinos and much more.

There’s also the chance to enjoy a tiramisu experience with a difference – watch as fresh coffee is delicately poured over ladyfingers, topped with lashings of fresh mascarpone and dusted with cocoa powder.

Alternatively, the ‘coffee design experience’ is another innovative menu option you won’t find anywhere else, featuring a trio of inventive culinary creations including coffee caviar.

If you’re looking for a unique venue for your festive party or business event, Lavazza has you covered.

Want to know more? Contact Lavazza Flagship via email at [email protected] and by phone on 020 3307 3730