The Social Space is a lovely café that feels especially easy to enjoy when you’re visiting with pets. The outdoor seating area is genuinely spacious and pet friendly, so you don’t feel like you’re squeezing a dog under a tiny table or apologising every time someone walks past. It’s the kind of relaxed set-up that works well for lingering over a drink while your pet settles in.
Food-wise, the offering is simple in the best way: a tight, café-style menu built around light, wholesome plates that taste fresh and “good for you” without trying too hard. They’re best known for their open-face toasts and smoothie bowls, with a general emphasis on using sustainably sourced, fair-trade ingredients. Drinks lean toward the refreshing and café staples—think good coffee alongside a range of non-coffee options that pair nicely with their lighter dishes. You can scan a QR code at the table to view the menu, ordering and payment are done inside at the counter, and then the food is brought out to you afterward.
What makes The Social Space particularly interesting is that it’s not just a café—it positions itself as a “business for good,” with a heavy focus on sustainability and inclusive employment. Their social mission includes providing vocational training and employment for individuals from marginalized backgrounds or those with disabilities, which adds a meaningful layer to an otherwise casual café visit.
This is also the outlet with a nail salon highlighting Non-Toxic nail polish – The Nail Social, a socially conscious nail salon that trains and employs underprivileged women. The retail side includes a “Refillery,” where you can buy eco-friendly household cleaners and personal care products in bulk—bring your own bottle—and browse fair-trade lifestyle goods. And at the Kreta Ayer branch, there’s It’s a distinctive blend that makes a visit feel like you’re supporting a wider ecosystem of ethical choices, not just grabbing a bite and a drink.
Overall, if you want a pet-friendly café with a calm outdoor set-up, simple delicious healthy food and drinks, and a clear commitment to sustainability and inclusive hiring, The Social Space is a rewarding place to spend an hour or two.
Own or work here?