Describe a cafe you like to visit.: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

Where is it?
What kinds of food and drinks does it serve?
Why do you like to go there?

35 unique answers with expert feedback

What makes the cakes at Half Way Cafe special?

The cakes at Half Way Cafe are special because they are incredibly delightful and creamy. The unique flavors and textures make them unforgettable, and I often find myself reminiscing about the taste long after I've eaten them.

How do you think cafes contribute to social interactions?

Cafes like Half Way Cafe serve as social hubs where friends and family can gather, share meals, and create lasting memories. They provide a relaxed atmosphere that encourages conversation and bonding over food and drinks.

Do you think the ambiance of a cafe affects your experience?

Absolutely! The ambiance of a cafe plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience. A cozy and inviting environment makes it easier to relax and enjoy time with friends, which is why I cherish my visits to Half Way Cafe.

Band 7

00:00

I enjoy going to a cafe called Sapa in Mysore. It is so beautiful and aesthetically pleasing as it is situated in the midst of greenery. The entire atmosphere of the cafe is so serene and peaceful. They're famous for their baked goods such as croissants, cakes and buns which are just mouth-watering. Also they're famous for their hot chocolate which is a good selling point of the cafe. All the cafes primarily serve the purpose of having a great relaxing period to recount, recollect and wind out after a long hectic day or just to spend a quality time and that's exactly what this cafe does for me every time.

Follow up questions

What do you usually do when you visit Sapa?

When I visit Sapa, I usually enjoy a hot chocolate and a croissant while reading a book or chatting with friends. The ambiance allows me to relax and unwind, making it a perfect spot to escape from daily stress.

How important is the atmosphere of a cafe to you?

The atmosphere of a cafe is very important to me. A serene and beautiful environment enhances my experience, allowing me to feel more relaxed and enjoy my time there. It makes a significant difference in how I perceive the overall quality of the cafe.

Do you prefer visiting cafes alone or with friends?

I enjoy visiting cafes both alone and with friends. When I'm alone, I can focus on my thoughts or a good book. However, visiting with friends allows for social interaction and sharing experiences, which is equally enjoyable.

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Band 7

00:00

A cafe I recently visited with my friends was a cozy little place called Glow Cafe. We went there to celebrate one of my friend's birthday. The cafe is located in Nungambakkam. It's a popular spot for friends because of its friendly vibe and great food. The cafe has a warm and welcoming atmosphere with soft lighting and comfortable seating. We reserved a table in advance and surprised our friend with a small donut cake. After the cake cutting ceremony, we ordered some delicious snacks like sandwiches, pizza, burger and their signature cold coffee. We spent hours chatting, laughing and even playing game boards and the cafe provides for customers. I really liked the cafe because of its cozy environment and friendly staff. The food was excellent and the overall experience made the celebration even more special. It's a place where we could relax and enjoy each other's company. Visiting the Glow Cafe for my friend's birthday celebration was a wonderful experience. It's now one of my favorite places to hang out with friends and I look forward to going there again.

Follow up questions

What do you think makes a cafe a good place to hang out?

A good cafe should have a cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and a diverse menu. It should also provide a comfortable space for conversation and relaxation, making it easy for friends to spend time together.

How often do you visit cafes with your friends?

I try to visit cafes with my friends at least once a month. It's a great way to catch up and enjoy good food together. We often explore new places, but we also have our favorites like Glow Cafe.

What types of food do you usually order at cafes?

I usually go for snacks like sandwiches and burgers, but I also love trying their desserts and signature drinks. Each cafe has its own specialties, and I enjoy discovering new flavors.

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Band 7

00:00

My favorite cafe or a cafe that I would like to visit is in Varkala, Kerala. It's in the southernmost part of Kerala, where you can have a coffee while enjoying the views of the beach and the sunset, if you go there on the right time. And the cafe's name is God's Own Country. It stands true to its name. Usually when I visit the cafe, I order their famous croissant along with the coffee. And I like to go there alone to enjoy the peace and the serenity that the country has to offer along with the coffee. I also like to order different things on the menu, such as their fish. The cafe is famous for their fish and their prawns. I'm a huge fan of seafood. Therefore, the God's Own Country cafe is my favorite place because it caters to my expectations. Also, I like going to the cafe because they are pet friendly and I can sometimes take my dog along with me when I visit that cafe. Along with my dog, I like to take sips of my coffee and just enjoy the views of the nature. Especially, like I mentioned before, I like to watch the sunset where the birds flock around over the horizon. Along with my pet, who's a beagle. His name is Koch. I like to watch the views. I also like to sometimes take my friends there when I want some company, especially during the night time when the vibe entirely changes to party mode. And there are songs, there's live music, there's a dance floor, and there are lights for us to enjoy. And it gives a different vibe when compared to the sunsets. The cafe also offers carry-on shopping.

Follow up questions

What makes the atmosphere of the cafe special for you?

The atmosphere is special because of the stunning beach views and the serene environment. Watching the sunset while sipping coffee creates a peaceful and relaxing vibe, especially when I'm there with my dog, Koch. The combination of nature and good food makes it a perfect escape.

How do you feel about the food options at the cafe?

I love the food options at God's Own Country. Their croissants are a must-try, and as a seafood lover, I enjoy their fish and prawns. The variety on the menu keeps me excited to try new dishes every time I visit, making each experience unique.

Do you prefer visiting the cafe alone or with friends, and why?

I enjoy visiting the cafe both alone and with friends. Alone, I appreciate the peace and nature, while with friends, especially at night, the lively atmosphere with music and dancing creates a fun experience. Each visit offers something different depending on my mood.

Band 7

00:00

One cafe that comes to my mind when I think of pleasant, good food and coffee is the Bukko Cafe in Mangalore. Bukko Cafe is located in the center of Mangalore which is the Balmata Junction. One thing I love about this place is the ambience and the interior. It has a very rural interior with bricks and chairs like the ones we have in the local bus stands in a rural area. So the food is mainly what I love here. One is the Grinch Burger which consists of two patties and a special sauce which is made from coriander. That brings so much peace to my soul because I have never had a burger in my life which has the coriander sauce because typically everyone has this mayo, the ketchup and the mustard. I think this brings a uniqueness in the burger and also the chili cheese toast which is like mouth-watering when I am talking about it. I am the person who really likes not too sweet food but the tiramisu over there is the one I can have everyday, every single day. Whenever I go to this place with my friends, I always find it so peaceful to sit and sip on a hot chocolate and my tiramisu. I think this is what brings me peace and I would like to go everyday if it would be possible for me. It was located nearby my house. It is in a distance of 10-15 minutes away from my house but then it's very easy to go there and I can't wait to visit it again as I am talking about it.

Follow up questions

What other cafes do you enjoy visiting?

Apart from Bukko Cafe, I also enjoy visiting the Coffee House in Mangalore. It has a different vibe, with a more urban feel and a wide variety of coffee options. The atmosphere is lively, and it's a great place to meet friends and enjoy some good conversations over a cup of coffee.

How important is the ambience of a cafe to you?

The ambience is extremely important to me. A cozy and inviting atmosphere enhances the overall experience. It allows me to relax and enjoy my food and drinks. I often choose cafes based on their interior design and how comfortable I feel there.

Do you prefer visiting cafes alone or with friends?

I prefer visiting cafes with friends because it makes the experience more enjoyable. Sharing good food and drinks while having conversations creates wonderful memories. However, I also appreciate the occasional solo visit for some quiet time and reflection.

Show all 35 answers

Cue 1:Where is it?

Begin by mentioning the location of the cafe, including the city and neighborhood.
Describe the ambiance and surroundings that make the cafe appealing.

Example

The cafe I love to visit is located in the bustling area of Connaught Place in New Delhi. It’s nestled between some vibrant shops and has a cozy outdoor seating area that is perfect for people-watching.

Cue 2:What kinds of food and drinks does it serve?

List some of your favorite items from the menu, focusing on both food and beverages.
Mention any unique or signature dishes that the cafe is known for.

Example

The cafe serves a variety of delicious items, including freshly brewed coffee, aromatic teas, and mouth-watering pastries. I particularly enjoy their signature masala chai and the chocolate croissant, which are simply delightful.

Cue 3:Why do you like to go there?

Share personal reasons for your preference, such as the atmosphere, service, or special memories.
Highlight any unique features that set this cafe apart from others.

Example

I love going there because it has a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes me feel relaxed. The staff are friendly and always greet me with a smile, which adds to the overall experience. It’s also a great place to catch up with friends or spend some quiet time reading.

Conclusion

Summarize your overall feelings about the cafe.
Mention how often you visit and any future plans you have regarding the cafe.

Example

In conclusion, this cafe holds a special place in my heart. I try to visit at least once a week, and I look forward to trying new items on the menu each time I go.

Following this structure will ensure you cover all the essential points while providing a clear and engaging response to the cue card topic.

Tips to answer this Cue Card

1: Being Vague About Location

Candidates often give unclear or general descriptions of the cafe's location, which makes it hard for the examiner to visualize. Specific details help create a clearer picture.

Tip

Mention the exact area or landmark near the cafe to provide a clear context. For example, say 'It's located near the city park' instead of just 'in the city.'

2: Listing Too Many Menu Items

Some candidates list too many food and drink items, which can overwhelm the listener. It's better to focus on a few favorites that highlight the cafe's uniqueness.

Tip

Choose two or three signature dishes or drinks that you love and explain why they are special. This keeps your answer concise and engaging.

Not Explaining Personal Connection

Candidates often fail to explain why they like the cafe, making their answer less personal and relatable. Sharing personal experiences makes your response more engaging.

Tip

Share a specific memory or feeling associated with the cafe, such as a special occasion or a favorite moment spent there, to create a connection.

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