Flamingos Coffee House

Considering the prevalence of queer spaces that are bars and clubs, it is always a delight to find a an affordable sober LGBTQ+ venue that is open in the daytime. Things get even better when it is a cute and cosy safe space with step-free access like Flamingos Coffee House! It makes me happy to know that there is a space that young people can come to express themselves freely and people who cannot or do not want to access the sensory overload that is a night club can connect to the community. I visited for breakfast and was quite charmed by the different oatmeal and hot chocolate options. There were a lot of vegetarian menu items and many could be made vegan as well. One of the highlights of the space was a Sonic the Hedgehog themed art exhibition by artists working with Pyramid, an inclusive arts situation. I really enjoyed seeing all the different styles and the artists' reflections. In addition to breakfast and lunch foods, hot and cold drinks and baked goods, you can also get some pride merch at the side of the counter. In addition to making a point of being a welcoming space to everyone, Flamingos also provides spaces for a community bulletin board and informative leaflets as well as a basket for condoms in the bathroom, although it was empty when I visited.

Flamingo's Coffee House is on the ground floor of Central Arcade in Leeds city centre. The doors are propped open during opening hours, & the entrance is wide & level. All of the tables have moveable chairs & are a good height for wheelchair access. There is plenty of room to manoeuvre, especially for such a small unit. The counter is a little high for comfort, but usable.