Describe a café or restaurant you enjoy

Sample answer (estimated band 7.5)

The café I enjoy most is a small place called The Willow & Bean in Ashbridge, and it’s just a five-minute walk from my flat. It’s the kind of place that isn’t flashy but feels welcoming — a cosy, plant-filled interior with big windows that look out onto the river. I usually order a flat white and an almond tart, which is their signature, and I like that they source most of their ingredients locally so everything tastes fresh. The staff are relaxed and friendly; the staff always remember my name, which makes it feel like a community spot rather than a chain. I tend to go in the mornings when I’m working from home because it’s quiet and they have reliable Wi-Fi. For me it’s a reliable place to get work done, but I also go with friends at the weekend when they have live acoustic music. What keeps me going back is the consistent quality and the atmosphere — it’s lively without being noisy, and the owner organises events that bring people together. If it’s busy, I might wait or come back later, but generally it’s affordable and uncomplicated. All in all, it’s the combination of good food, friendly service and a warm atmosphere that makes it my favourite local café.

Part 3 discussion questions

1. How have people’s eating habits changed in your country in recent years?
2. What role do cafés play in urban communities?
3. How important is it for restaurants to use local ingredients?
4. Should governments regulate the healthiness of food sold in restaurants?
5. How do dining trends reflect wider social changes?

Part 1 questions: Eating out

1. How often do you eat out?
2. What kind of places do you prefer to eat at?
3. Do you usually go out with friends or family?
4. Have you tried any new restaurants recently?
5. Do you prefer cafés or full-service restaurants?