Expecto Patronum Indeed: The Hogwarts Cafe

J.K Rowling once famously said, “Whether you come back by page or by the big screen, Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home.”

But what do you do when there’s an insatiable craving to relive the wizarding world after you’re done reading all the seven Harry Potter books for the hundredth time and you’re not sure if you want to spoil the sweet buzz of the written word with watching either of the first three Harry Potter movies? You head to Hogwarts Cafe of course!

About a month back Harry Potter themed eatery, the Hogwarts Cafe opened its doors to the residents of Islamabad and Pindi. Ever since, the place has seen a non-stop stream of awe-struck customers who can’t seem to have enough of the decor and the Hogwarts styled props.

Here’s a quick review of the Cafe for anyone who still hasn’t had the chance to visit.

What Made Us Go Expecto Patronum

From the moment you set foot inside the café, you’re instantly teleport-ed to the wizarding world. There are people walking around the place in Hogwarts attire (the robes and the hats are made to perfection!) with wands in their hands and huge grins on their faces. The walls are adorned with spells and beloved quotes from the books, the furniture bears symbols of the lightening mark and the deathly hallows; and there’s a Nimbus 2000 and a Firebolt that you can play with! In the simplest of words, the place is a Harry Potter heaven!

What makes the experience all the more pleasant is the enthusiasm with which the owner serves the guests. He’s not just on his feet constantly taking orders, seating guests and fending the tables but with all the madness that’s going on he also makes an extra effort to recall the names of his guests when serving them!

For those who haven’t read the books or seen the movies (I know, impossible but just in case!) the Cafe also houses gaming consoles for added entertainment.

What Could Use an Episkey

The single most important factor that plays a spoil sport with Hogwarts Cafe is its space – it’s very, very small! I’m sure that decorating even the given space must have cost the owner a tiny fortune but once he’s recovered some profits serious thought needs to be given to expanding the boundaries! Too many enthusiastic customers keep walking in and end up in long queues to get seated and served. It took us a good 45 minutes to finally find a table for four!

Another aspect that could use some improvement is the food itself. The food isn’t particularly bad tasting but it’s forgettable – and in some ways that’s worse. Granted that most of the customers come to the Hogwarts Cafe for the experience more than the food but at the end of the day it is an eatery and once the fanfare dies down, it would have to improve its food to sustain.

All said, the Hogwarts Cafe has an energy so vibrant that (despite a long wait for the table and okay-ish food) you’ll leave with a huge smile on your face! Definitely worth a visit!