By Aysha Sarah
The LSE Dessert Cafe opened its doors for the first time on 19 November. Situated on the sixth floor of the Saw Swee Hock Building, the cafe is an alcohol-free space that also offers vegan options to students. The cafe will be open every Friday evening from 5pm to 9pm and promises “pancakes, waffles and good vibes”.
This cafe opening marks one of first initiatives at LSE to provide an alcohol-free alternative to socialising amidst the School’s drinking culture. The SU instituted the cafe in response to student observations that the majority of social activities on campus revolve around drinking, such as society socials at the Three Tuns or the Athletics Union (AU) club nights on Wednesdays. Thus, the Dessert Cafe serves to offer an environment for students who may wish to socialise in other ways. Moreover, the cafe’s provision of vegan options also caters to students with specific dietary requirements.
A member of the Islamic Society commented: “As a Muslim student at LSE, it is incredibly difficult to find halal food options around campus. This initiative of a non-alcoholic cafe opens up options that satisfy my dietary needs. It will be a place where you can meet people, have a good time, and get great halal food.”
A second-year student commented: “I don’t mind drinking; however, the opening of the cafe gives more choice and definitely increases inclusivity. I am able to socialise with my non-drinking friends in an environment that they feel comfortable in.”
