Once upon a time, there were 3 young friends. One was super into coffee, one loved playing about with flavours and making pies and one was the chef of the group, making everyone try their dishes until it was spot on. One day, these 3 friends were eating a slice of pie after a delicious brunch with a coffee and thought, ‘you know what, why don’t we just put this altogether? Let’s create a really cool, spot where people can come, chill and enjoy what we have to offer’.

I don’t know if that is actually the story but the whole vibe and feel of Idle Hands makes me imagine that. On the corner of a cool Northern Quarter street you’ll find them, to the left of an imposing doorway. When you walk inside, you’ll find a cozy and casual coffee shop. A light open space, decorated with posters, plants and pastels. Some people sit solo, eating a slice of pie whilst engrossed in a magazine. Others come in a group and catch-up over brunch. The bravest of them all, pull up a chair in the outside seating area with a cup of coffee and people watch for the morning.

Anyways, when you arrive, take a seat that’s free, peruse the all-day brunch menu then head up to the bar to order and pay. You’ll try to resist the pies that they’re famous for, but you’ll crumble. Cranberry key lime pie, passionfruit vanilla, cocoa vanilla orange cream pie. Even a cheeky banana bread.

For my first time here, I ordered the Turkish eggs, which were delicious and G had the Divorced eggs which she was eager to recreate at home. The beans were *chefs kiss* according to her. When I came back, I also got the Divorced eggs and can confirm they were unreal. I also got a mocha, (yes, I drink coffee now, I’m a changed woman).

You can’t book in advance, but we went on a Sunday at about midday and managed to get a table. I’d recommend getting there early or being prepared to have a little wander around the Northern Quarter streets to kill some time before popping back. For a brunch dish and drink it was approx. £13 each, so pretty decent. Find them here.