Books & Beans
Aberdeen's cozy Fair Trade café and second-hand book haven on Belmont Street—savor pancakes, soups, and literary treasures in one independent gem.
Nestled on vibrant Belmont Street in Aberdeen's city center, Books & Beans blends a cozy Fair Trade café with a treasure trove of over 10,000 second-hand books across two floors. Savor all-day breakfasts, fluffy pancakes, homemade soups, and vegan-friendly dishes amid shelves of literary gems, free WiFi, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for book lovers and casual diners alike. Open daily from 9:30am, it's Aberdeen's independent haven for coffee, culture, and recharge time.
A brief summary to Itskitsch Ltd
- Books & Beans, 20 Little Belmont St, Aberdeen, AB10 1JH, GB
- +441224644466
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Opt for shoulder hours between 11:30am-12:30pm to access both breakfast and lunch menus with fewer crowds.
- Browse the upstairs shelves for rare collectibles amid 10,000+ books—perfect for unique finds in fiction, sci-fi, or poetry.
- Request vegan or gluten-free adaptations; many pancakes, cakes, and soups accommodate special diets seamlessly.
- Join the first-Thursday book club or last-Thursday poetry night for community vibes and free WiFi-fueled creativity.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Itskitsch Ltd location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Itskitsch Ltd
Café Meets Literary Haven
Books & Beans occupies a prime spot on Belmont Street, one of Aberdeen's bustling pedestrian thoroughfares just off the main Union Street artery. This independent gem fuses the warmth of a Fair Trade coffee shop with an expansive second-hand bookstore, creating a multifaceted space where patrons can linger over meals while surrounded by literature. Downstairs, the café hums with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baking scones, while upstairs reveals a labyrinth of bookshelves stocked with everything from classics to graphic novels. The venue's dual nature sets it apart in the Granite City's vibrant core, offering not just sustenance but an immersive escape into reading. With table service and a commitment to fair trade principles, it embodies local independence amid chain-dominated surroundings.Menu Highlights and Dietary Inclusivity
The all-day menu caters to diverse tastes, featuring hearty breakfasts like fluffy American-style pancakes topped with fresh berries or Nutella, alongside omelettes, toasties, and platters. Lunch options include homemade soups, fresh salads, panini, and sandwiches, with many dishes made to order for optimal freshness. Cakes, brownies, and scones round out the sweets, many available in gluten-free or vegan variations. Fair Trade coffee, teas, and hot chocolates form the backbone of the drink selection, paired with soft drinks for a comprehensive range. This thoughtful approach ensures accessibility for vegetarians, vegans, and those with gluten sensitivities, making it a welcoming stop for varied dietary needs without compromising on flavor or quality.Book Collection's Depth and Variety
Spanning two floors, the bookstore boasts over 10,000 volumes, including new and used titles across genres like fiction, non-fiction, history, poetry, sci-fi, horror, crime, and children's books such as Mr. Men series. Collectible editions add rarity for avid collectors, while everyday reads ensure broad appeal. The space facilitates the ongoing journey of second-hand books, promoting sustainability in reading. Browsing integrates seamlessly with café visits—patrons can peruse shelves mid-meal, discovering hidden gems amid the cozy clutter. An affiliation with online platforms supports this mission, channeling proceeds back to independent booksellers like Books & Beans.Community Events and Atmosphere
Beyond daily operations, the venue hosts engaging events like a monthly book club on the first Thursday and poetry readings on the last Thursday, fostering a sense of community among locals and visitors. Free WiFi, printing, faxing, and copying services in the internet café upstairs enhance its utility as a creative hub. The atmosphere strikes a balance between lively and intimate, with colorful, modern decor shattering dusty bookstore stereotypes. Dog-friendly policies and highchairs extend hospitality to families and pet owners, while outdoor seating invites enjoyment of Belmont Street's energy on milder days.Central Location's Allure
Positioned in Aberdeen's heart, Books & Beans benefits from its proximity to cultural landmarks, theaters, and shopping districts, making it an ideal pause during city explorations. The pedestrian-friendly setting encourages spontaneous drop-ins, with the café's extended hours accommodating brunch seekers, lunch crowds, and evening event-goers alike. This strategic placement underscores its role as a cultural anchor, blending culinary comfort with intellectual stimulation in a city rich with granite heritage and maritime history.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade
0.1 km
An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.
Edward VII Statue
0.1 km
Aberdeen’s grand Edward VII Statue stands in full ceremonial robes, a striking granite and bronze tribute to the British monarch at the heart of the city.
Aedie's House site
0.1 km
Step into Aberdeen’s past at the site of Aedie’s House, a 16th‑century townhouse whose memory lives on in stone, street names, and local history.
Duke Of Gordon Monument
0.3 km
A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.
Marischal College
0.3 km
Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
0.4 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
Greyfriars Church
0.4 km
Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
Castlegate
0.4 km
Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
Gordon Highlanders Statue
0.5 km
A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.
Rosemount Palace
1.0 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Rosemount Market
1.1 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
Gallows Hill
1.3 km
Gallows Hill in Aberdeen stands as a haunting reminder of centuries-old public executions and grim justice.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
1.3 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Edward VIII Post Box
1.3 km
Discover a rare Edward VIII post box in Aberdeen, a unique relic from the brief 1936 reign of a king who changed British history.
Queen Victoria Statue
1.6 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
St. Nicholas Cemetery
0.1 km
Discover Aberdeen’s ancient spiritual heart where history, maritime heritage, and sacred grounds converge on Union Street.
General Gordon Statue
0.1 km
A dignified bronze tribute to General Charles Gordon, reflecting his military valor and humanitarian legacy in the heart of Aberdeen.
Aberdeen Art Gallery
0.1 km
Scotland's finest art collection in a stunning neo-classical building—free entry, world-class works, rooftop views.
Union Terrace Gardens
0.1 km
Historic sunken gardens in Aberdeen’s heart, blending Victorian charm with modern design for a vibrant city green space.
Cowdray Hall
0.2 km
Historic concert hall in Aberdeen with superb acoustics, elegant design, and a vibrant cultural program nestled within Aberdeen Art Gallery.
The Grn
0.2 km
Historic granite square in Aberdeen blending medieval heritage with vibrant cafes and artistic charm.
Aberdeen Sign
0.2 km
A vibrant illuminated landmark in Aberdeen’s historic Union Terrace, celebrating local culture and offering a striking photo opportunity day and night.
St Nicholas Bandstand
0.2 km
An elegant historic bandstand in Aberdeen’s city center, blending architectural charm with vibrant community spirit and cultural events.
Huntfun Aberdeen
0.2 km
Discover Aberdeen’s city center through an exciting, interactive treasure hunt along Union Street that blends fun, learning, and adventure.
William Wallace Statue
0.2 km
A towering bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring William Wallace’s heroic fight for Scottish independence and liberty.
The Tunnels
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aberdeen at The Tunnels, an underground nightclub known for electrifying live music and a unique atmosphere.
His Majesty's Theatre
0.2 km
Historic Edwardian theatre in Aberdeen offering diverse performing arts in a beautifully preserved setting.
Bon Accord Aberdeen
0.3 km
Discover diverse shopping and vibrant city life at Bon Accord Aberdeen, the heart of retail on George Street.
Provost Skene's House
0.3 km
Explore Aberdeen’s oldest townhouse, a historic museum celebrating local heroes, with stunning Renaissance art and centuries of captivating history.
Marischal Square
0.3 km
A vibrant city centre complex blending modern architecture, dining, and festive markets in the heart of Aberdeen.
Essential places to dine
Wild Boar
0.0 km
Historic Aberdeen pub offering classic British fare, real ales, live entertainment, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the city center.
Tango Turtle- Caribbean Inspired Restaurant
0.0 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors and lively culture in the heart of Aberdeen at Tango Turtle, where generous portions meet colorful ambiance.
Poldino's Restaurant & Pizzeria
0.1 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy family-run charm in the heart of Aberdeen’s city center.
Revolución de Cuba Aberdeen
0.1 km
Discover the essence of Cuba at Revolución de Cuba Aberdeen – where vibrant cuisine meets lively entertainment.
The Tippling House
0.1 km
A stylish Aberdeen cocktail bar and restaurant blending inventive drinks with fresh, flavorful small plates in a cozy speakeasy setting.
Ninety-Nine
0.1 km
Experience expertly crafted cocktails and vibrant modern bar food in the heart of Aberdeen’s lively social scene at Ninety-Nine.
Moonfish Cafe
0.2 km
A cozy Aberdeen bistro serving innovative seafood and modern British dishes in a historic medieval quarter setting.
Cafe 52
0.2 km
Cozy and creative Scottish dining on Aberdeen’s historic Green, blending home-style comfort with inventive flavors and warm hospitality.
Chaophraya
0.2 km
Experience authentic and innovative Thai cuisine in Aberdeen’s historic and elegant dining landmark.
THE BISTRO
0.2 km
A contemporary and welcoming dining spot in Aberdeen’s city center, blending local flavors with relaxed style.
Bistro Verde
0.2 km
An intimate Aberdeen bistro delivering fresh, beautifully presented seafood with attentive service in a cozy, elegant setting.
Monsoona Healthy Indian cuisine
0.2 km
Experience authentic, health-conscious Indian cuisine in the heart of Aberdeen with fresh flavors and warm hospitality at Monsoona.
The Terrace Bar and Café
0.2 km
A stylish café-bar blending historic grandeur and modern dining within Aberdeen’s iconic His Majesty's Theatre.
Café Bohème
0.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and cozy brasserie charm in the heart of Aberdeen at Café Bohème.
The City Bar and Diner
0.3 km
Contemporary dining and drinks in Aberdeen's city centre with exceptional vegetarian options and genuine hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Itskitsch Ltd
0.0 km
Aberdeen's cozy Fair Trade café and second-hand book haven on Belmont Street—savor pancakes, soups, and literary treasures in one independent gem.
Juniper
0.0 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish home furniture, and beautiful jewellery in a charming shop with a welcoming ambience in the heart of Aberdeen.
White Stuff Aberdeen
0.1 km
Discover British charm and sustainable style at White Stuff Aberdeen, your boutique for distinctive casual fashion and accessories.
Oliver Bonas
0.1 km
Discover Oliver Bonas Aberdeen, a stylish boutique blending British design with unique fashion, homeware, and gifts in a historic city setting.
Forbes Gallery & Gifts
0.1 km
Independent gift gallery showcasing Scottish photography and artisan souvenirs in Aberdeen's heart.
Aberdeen Gift and Tourist Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and local crafts on Aberdeen's iconic Union Street, where handmade treasures meet Granite City charm.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.2 km
Discover quirky Danish design and playful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Aberdeen’s Trinity Centre.
EDIT
0.2 km
Discover handcrafted gems from Aberdeen's Deemouth Artist Studios at this city-center gift shop—unique jewelry, textiles, and art by 50 local makers.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish knitwear and unique gifts steeped in heritage at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Street.
Beyond Vintage
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and classic Levi's in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant shopping scene.
Annie Mo's
0.3 km
Discover authentic rustic furniture and unique home accessories at Annie Mo's, Aberdeen's independent shop with over 30 years of heritage.
The Vintage Market
0.3 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Aberdeen’s cosy Vintage Market on Market Street.
Menkind
0.5 km
Discover quirky, unique gifts and gadgets for all ages at Menkind, nestled in Aberdeen’s bustling Union Square Shopping Centre.
Next
0.5 km
Discover stylish family fashion and homeware at Next, located in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Square Shopping Centre.
Scotland's Bothy
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, souvenirs, and custom T-shirts at Scotland's Bothy in Aberdeen, where tradition meets quality craftsmanship.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Revolution Aberdeen
0.0 km
Vibrant Belmont Street cocktail bar with epic garden views, killer drinks, comfort food, and non-stop party vibes until late.
Ma Cameron's
0.1 km
Aberdeen's cozy Victorian pub pouring creamy pints and hearty pies amid lively banter on historic Little Belmont Street.
The Triplekirks
0.1 km
Aberdeen’s lively pub and sports bar offering boozy brunches, live games, pub quizzes, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Prince Of Wales
0.2 km
Historic Aberdeen pub with the city's longest bar, real ales, home-cooked food, and lively music sessions in a warm, traditional setting.
Ye Olde Frigate Bar
0.3 km
Aberdeen's oldest pourhouse: 28 beers, generous drams, burgers, wings, sports, and jukebox vibes in a maritime nook.
Bartenders Lounge
0.3 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife with innovative cocktails, fresh music, and welcoming vibes at Bartenders Lounge on North Silver Street.
ENVY Aberdeen
0.3 km
A compact Market Street bar blending daytime coffee culture with casual evening drinks and small-plate dining in central Aberdeen.
Under the Hammer
0.3 km
A cosy, characterful basement bar in Aberdeen offering well-made cocktails, a collected interior and an intimate, friendly evening atmosphere.
The Stag
0.3 km
A lively and welcoming city-centre pub in Aberdeen, offering great drinks, entertainment, and a friendly atmosphere every day from noon to midnight.
Spirit Level
0.3 km
A vibrant and welcoming pub in Aberdeen’s city center, known for great beer, lively music, and a friendly atmosphere.
All Bar One Aberdeen
0.3 km
Stylish wine bar in Marischal Square serving global wines, craft cocktails, and shareable plates amid Aberdeen's urban buzz.
The GasLamp Bar
0.3 km
Lively grill and sports bar in Aberdeen’s city centre, known for friendly service and a vibrant social atmosphere.
BrewDog Aberdeen Gallowgate
0.3 km
Discover Aberdeen’s craft beer pioneer with 29 taps, artisanal pizzas, and a lively atmosphere at BrewDog Gallowgate.
Krakatoa
0.4 km
A vibrant tiki-themed dive bar in Aberdeen offering eclectic drinks, live music, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from afternoon till late night.
Fierce Bar Aberdeen
0.4 km
City-centre taproom from Fierce Beer offering rotating house brews, guest taps, cocktails and whisky in a relaxed, dog-friendly space.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
