The Fern (Royal Oak)
The Fern in Royal Oak feels like a proper coffee shop hangout. The lighting is dim, the seating is comfortable, and there are a handful of tables mixed throughout. It’s a small space, so even a few conversations can make it feel a bit loud, but the overall energy still leans toward staying rather than moving on.
The space itself is an old industrial unit that’s been reworked into a café. The ceiling is unfinished, which seems to be the trend lately, and there’s only one window. The décor is plant-forward, and the furniture is a bit of a hodgepodge. It works. The whole place feels like a neighborhood coffee shop, the kind of spot you’d intentionally choose to meet someone and settle into a conversation.
I ordered a 16 oz crème brûlée latte, which cost $8. It was tasty and well made, though definitely on the pricier side for that size. Worth noting, but not enough to overshadow the experience.
The Fern feels well-suited for talking and spending time. It’s comfortable, relaxed, and clearly designed for people who want to be there, not just pass through. The only real downside is that it closes relatively early, though that feels more like a limitation of the space than a flaw.
Would I stay for a second cup?
Yes. This is the kind of place that invites you to linger, keep the conversation going, and not feel rushed to leave.
