A COFFEE shop in the Covered Market hailed as a ‘real gem’ by customers has gained another top food hygiene rating.

Colombia Coffee Roasters was given a five-star score following a surprise inspection by Oxford City Council on March 9.

The independent shop explains its ethical ethos on its website, telling customers: “We are speciality, single-origin coffee roasters born and based in Oxford.

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“We are part of a generation of coffee growers in Colombia with a strong focus on delivering high-quality coffee and education, whilst supporting Fair Trade conditions to ensure our coffee is sustainable and ethical.”

It continues: “From tree to cup, we know what we are sourcing, roasting and brewing. Our 100 per cent Arabica coffee comes from our family farm as well as small neighbouring coffee farms which are located at high altitude in Colombia.

“Having a direct relationship with our farmers guarantees the quality of the coffee we receive. In house roasting then ensures the freshness of our coffee.

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“Last but not least, our highly skilled baristas put the final touch of magic to share the journey of coffee love in in every cup.”

This attention to detail is reflected in the shop’s rave reviews.

Customers have declared the Covered Market cafe, which was first given five stars in March 2017, a ‘real gem’ serving ‘some of the best coffee I have ever tasted’.

Another wrote: “If you are looking for the real taste of coffee this coffee shop is perfect.”

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While a delighted customer said: “Definitely the best coffee in Oxford for strength, flavour, and overall quality.

“I get their whole roasted beans to use at home as well. Service is efficient and friendly.”

The Covered Market shop is shut during the lockdown so people can no longer enjoy its pastries and other food but its speciality coffee is still available to buy online for those craving a caffeine fix.

Equipment for home brewing, artisan chocolate coffered coffee beans and are for sale as well.

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People are also being urged buy gift cards for someone they know to support the Oxford business during this ‘difficult time’. These can either be used online or when shops reopen.

As well as its Covered Market shop, Colombia Coffee Roasters also opened a cafe in Summertown last year.

It has been offering a limited morning takeaway service, with NHS frontline staff able to get free and coffee.

To order online visit colombiacoffeeroasters.co.uk or go to the company's Facebook page.