Dalhousie

I've heard a few people asking whether we really need another cafe on the Triangle, but as long as each offers something different, why not? Canadian, Derek Taylor certainly believes that, and spent months of hard work,  in preparation for the opening of his delightful cafe at No.1 Westow Street, formerly the home of Popiel cycles. The name, Dalhousie, in case you were wondering, was the name of the street, Derek lived on, back in Toronto. During a career,  first in finance, and then in hospitality and events planning, Derek maintained a passion for baking cakes, something he inherited, along with all the recipes, from his grandmother. Then, only a year or two ago, luck and love brought him to London, and luckily for us, to Crystal Palace.
As was Derek's intention, the cafe looks and feels very different from other local establishments. The idea is that everything about it makes you feel like it's a treat. It starts of course with the delicious cakes and Union Roasted coffee, but then there's the Digby's English sparkling wine, the chocolates, the flowers, and the elegant interior on two floors. I particularly love the 'zigzag' texture of the counter, inspired by corrugated take-away cup holders! So rather than trying to compete locally, Derek, with the help of his young and friendly team, is contributing something different to the area, which has been an instant hit, and despite his own comparatively recent arrival, he already feels committed to Crystal Palace.

Chocolates by Audrey's Chocolates

Samples of delicious sticky toffee cake

Bread from the Bread Factory

Derek Taylor

Dalhousie
1 Westow Street