A Rival for my Local

WAIT UP! There's a new kid on the block and he's simple and smart (I'm not sure why but this place is definitely a boy).  I spied Keyhole Espresso as it's sign went up.  Great name, it begs a question.  It's just round the corner from my local, Blue Poppy, so I thought I'd better check out the competition. I was also captivated by the road sign announcing "fresh bagels daily"! I adore bagels but they are so hard to come by in Australia.  I like them simple with cream cheese and jam, they were on offer so I was a happy camper.  However they offered more than just plain bagels (they also do a gluten free option), and they do a variety of toppings too (there was meat in there for the lads).  They also serve desserts, today's offerings being Cherry Pie and Chocolate Cake.
I waited until after the morning work rush and headed on down there in the Vitara rather than be spotted in the more distinctive MX5. I felt like I was on a mission and I had to be careful not to be spotted by one of the many Blue Poppy locals.
Anyway, I LIKED this space. Outside there are umbrellas and a few seats and carparks (not many but then there is the roadside too). Inside there are a few small tables (not much space for newspaper readers who like to spread their paper out wide) and also some more relaxing chairs.  The space is not crammed with furniture, it's air conditioned, there's free wi-fi (could be a new writing spot...) and the staff are really pleasant, known to their already regulars by first name.
The coffee was well made, and the service was great. There was a little shortbread biscuit on my saucer (of course I didn't eat it) and there's a table with self service water and glasses. The place was fresh, clean and comfortable and provides me with a great local alternative especially when a bagel for breakfast beckons! This one is worth trying and especially convenient when traveling into the city on Richmond Road, Morningside.