Baobab Cafe, Loughborough – 38 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

Back
add_circle Add your night out listing

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

Baobab Cafe -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 38 user ratings

31 Market Street, Loughborough LE11 3ER

💬 What Students Say

Baobab Cafe, located at 31 Market Street in Loughborough, is a popular venue among students from Loughborough University. Known for its chilled atmosphere, Baobab Cafe is an ideal place for those looking to unwind and enjoy a night out with friends. The venue is particularly celebrated for its vegan and gluten-free menu, which has garnered positive feedback for its freshness and quality. The cafe's laid-back vibe allows students to customize their meals, making it a unique dining experience before or after a night out. Furthermore, the staff is noted for being friendly and accommodating, contributing to the overall welcoming environment.

The atmosphere at Baobab Cafe is often described as relaxed and inclusive. Students frequently mention the diverse crowd, which adds to the friendly and inviting ambiance. It's a place where you can feel at home, whether you’re just hanging out during the day or enjoying a lively night out. The music is another highlight, with many reviews praising the solid selection that keeps the energy high and encourages dancing. The blend of good tunes and a friendly crowd makes for an enjoyable experience that students look forward to revisiting.

In terms of drinks and pricing, Baobab Cafe receives commendations for its reasonable prices. Students appreciate that the drinks are priced just right, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy a few without breaking the bank. This affordability, combined with the lively atmosphere, makes it a popular choice for pre-drinks that can easily turn into a full night out. Many students have reported that they ended up staying longer than planned due to the enjoyable environment and good company.

When it comes to the queue and entry experience, students have noted that the waiting times are generally manageable. Reviews suggest that getting in is usually quick, allowing you to start your night without much hassle. This positive entry experience adds to the overall enjoyment of the venue, as no one likes to wait around when they’re ready to have fun.

Students consistently report having a great time at Baobab Cafe, with many noting that it’s one of those places that you should visit at least once during your student life. The energy is infectious, and the friendly vibe encourages a sense of community among attendees. Whether you're looking to chill with friends or dance the night away, Baobab Cafe seems to cater to a wide range of preferences, making it a versatile spot for any night out.

However, like any venue, Baobab Cafe has its strengths and weaknesses. On the positive side, the cafe has a high rating for cleanliness, which is always a plus for students looking for a hygienic place to gather. The overall value is also highly rated, which is essential for budget-conscious students. The smoking area is well-reviewed, providing a comfortable space for those who smoke without feeling excluded from the main crowd.

On the flip side, some students may find that the venue can get quite busy, especially during peak nights, which might detract from the relaxed atmosphere that many enjoy. While the music is generally well-received, it may not cater to all musical tastes, which could be a consideration for students who prefer different genres. Additionally, while the crowd is typically friendly, the diverse mix can sometimes lead to a more chaotic environment, which may not suit everyone’s idea of a good night out.

Overall, Baobab Cafe stands out as a great spot for students looking to enjoy a relaxed night out with friends. Its friendly atmosphere, solid music, and good drink prices make it a worthwhile destination. Whether you’re in the mood for a chill evening or a more lively night, Baobab Cafe offers something for everyone, making it a staple in the student nightlife scene in Loughborough. With its welcoming vibe and commitment to quality, it’s a place you won’t want to miss during your time at university.
▼ See more

✅ What Students Love

  • Chilled atmosphere perfect for hanging out with friends.
  • Highly rated for cleanliness, ensuring a pleasant environment.
  • Great selection of vegan and gluten-free menu options.
  • Friendly and laid-back staff contribute to a welcoming vibe.
  • Good drink prices make it an affordable choice for students.
  • Quick entry with manageable queues on busy nights.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Can get busy during peak times, potentially affecting the relaxed vibe.
  • Music selection may not cater to all tastes.
  • Diverse crowd can sometimes lead to a chaotic atmosphere.
  • Not all students may enjoy the mix of people present.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a relaxed and inclusive venue to enjoy a night out with friends.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are.
  • Try to arrive early to avoid long queues on popular nights.
  • The music is upbeat and encourages dancing, so be ready to have fun!
  • Ideal for pre-drinks that can turn into a full night out.

❓ Common Questions

What is Baobab Cafe like?

Baobab Cafe offers a relaxed atmosphere with a diverse crowd, making it a great place to hang out and enjoy good music.

How long is the queue?

Students report that the queues are generally manageable, allowing for a quick entry experience.

Is it good value?

Yes, Baobab Cafe is highly rated for its reasonable drink prices and overall value.

What music does Baobab Cafe play?

The music is upbeat and encourages dancing, adding to the lively atmosphere.

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

Reviews
1 of 39
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Found it much less chaotic than other spots in town, which is nice when you just want to chill without yelling over the music. the vegan options are surprisingly good, which makes it a decent choice when everyone's got different dietary needs.
By user526467 on Apr 20th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stumbled into baobab cafe expecting just another student joint, but the welcoming atmosphere pleasantly surprised me. the laid-back vibe made hanging out with mates more fun than i imagined.
By user247325 on Apr 15th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Hitting up baobab cafe feels different from other places because it strikes a balance between fun and relaxation. it's got that laid-back vibe which somehow manages to make a night feel eventful but chilled at the same time. perfect if you're keen on a hassle-free night with a bit of character, without the usual chaos you find elsewhere.
By user699048 on Apr 6th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Swing by Baobab Cafe for a chilled evening. mostly filled with uni students, so you'll feel right at home if you're one too. prices are reasonable and the vibe is relaxed, which makes it perfect for hanging out without worrying about spending too much.
By user887996 on Mar 27th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Would definitely go back to Baobab Cafe because it has just the right relaxed vibe I need after long days at placement. the staff are laid-back and it's easy to find a comfortable corner to sit and unwind. it's a great spot to meet up with uni mates without feeling rushed.
By user953400 on Mar 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Service could be quite slow, which was a bit frustrating when you're trying to get a quick bite between lectures 😬. staff seemed chill, but it felt like they were juggling a lot at once.
By user814471 on Mar 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed how the staff seem genuinely interested when chatting with regulars. makes a world of difference when you're trying to feel at home somewhere new.
By user524711 on Mar 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff seemed a bit overwhelmed on the night we visited, which slowed things down. it was a bit frustrating, but maybe they were just having an off day 😬
By user934892 on Mar 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed that the crowd at baobab cafe usually stays quite late, like me. everyone seems pretty laid back and in no hurry to leave. it's one of those places where you end up chatting longer than you expected and somehow the evening just disappears.
By user517585 on Feb 28th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Grab a seat at baobab cafe if you're searching for someplace relaxed to hang out with mates. the vegan options are a big draw, and the mix of students keeps the vibe buzzing without getting too rowdy 😅
By user385635 on Feb 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Felt instantly relaxed the moment I stepped inside, like they take laid-back seriously here. the whole place just seems to have this way of putting you at ease without any effort.
By user487236 on Feb 1st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Always see a diverse mix of students hanging out and chatting here. it’s relaxed and everyone seems comfortable, which makes it a nice spot to meet up with coursemates regularly.
By user521668 on Jan 25th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Everyone seemed so relaxed and welcoming as they chat and laugh around, making it a chill spot 😌.
By user849698 on Jan 20th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Honestly, it's the perfect place if you're into a more relaxed vibe compared to other spots in town. most places feel a bit full-on, but here you can actually have a chill conversation without shouting. loved how friendly everyone is, gives you a sense of community you don't get everywhere else 😊
By user510717 on Jan 14th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Crowd is a lively mix of uni students and locals, bringing an easygoing energy to the place. everyone seemed to be chatting away happily, making it feel casually social without any of the rowdy chaos you sometimes get elsewhere.
By user232577 on Jan 10th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stumbled upon their vegan options and was quite impressed. didn't expect them to be that flavourful, especially in a place known for chilling vibes.
By user232236 on Jan 4th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Settling into one of the comfy corners at baobab cafe, we didn’t realise how the hours just slipped away. started with us just catching up, but soon there was this natural buzz in the place that had us laughing more than we had in ages. looking around, it felt like everyone was part of the same relaxed vibe , no rush, just good moments.
By user765909 on Dec 31st 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
At baobab cafe, the music was a bit too loud for having a proper conversation. it's a chill place generally, but i had to shout over my mates which wasn't ideal for a relaxed catch up.
By user316325 on Dec 25th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Service can be a bit up and down here sometimes. the place gets quite busy on weekends, and it feels like they could use a couple more hands on deck. still, it's got a laid-back vibe that's worth the occasional wait.
By user300498 on Dec 20th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Took me a bit to warm up to Baobab Cafe, but now it feels like a second home on weekend nights. the vibe is relaxed and it's pretty easy to join in with the uni crowd. if you're not rushing, it's a solid option for dipping in and getting comfy over time.
By user497358 on Dec 14th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed loads of friendly faces from my course, felt like everyone came here to catch up and relax after lectures.
By user409330 on Dec 8th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Went here to catch up with friends but the wifi was a bit dodgy 😬 finding a good spot to get decent coverage felt like a challenge in itself. probably better just to stick to conversations over a coffee.
By user413084 on Dec 2nd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Expected a generic cafe but ended up loving the unique vibe and friendly chats with other students 😊.
By user280728 on Nov 26th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Expected just another café, but baobab was surprisingly relaxing. i could actually chat with my mates without yelling over the music. found myself wanting to extend the evening longer than usual.
By user252666 on Nov 19th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Fewer crowds here compared to other spots means you can actually chat with mates without shouting over the music.
By user924999 on Nov 11th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Love how relaxed the vibe is at Baobab. stumbled in one weekend and ended up chatting with a bunch of friendly locals who keep coming back for the calm atmosphere. it just felt like everyone was there to genuinely chill, which was exactly what i needed.
By user706585 on Nov 2nd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Expected it to be more chaotic, but it's surprisingly relaxed and chill.
By user803269 on Oct 27th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Bumped into loads of uni mates here and the vegan food options were surprisingly solid, making the whole night feel like a relaxed hangout rather than a planned outing
By user368511 on Oct 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Heard so much about baobab, and it actually lives up to its reputation. expected the usual chaos but found a surprisingly relaxed vibe instead , ideal for winding down with good chat after all that uni hustle 📚💭
By user652302 on Oct 20th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Check it out for the chill vibes and the vegan options everyone's talking about. it's a relaxed spot for grabbing a casual drink and having a good chat with friends.
By user685428 on Oct 17th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Baobab cafe's such a relaxed spot for catching up after a training session 😅 really feels comfortable for just being yourself. plus, it's usually filled with fellow students chatting or winding down 🍕
By user613855 on Oct 13th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Cannot forget the kindness of the staff at Baobab Cafe, making you feel like more than just another customer. even on a packed Friday night, they took the time to chat and recommend what might suit your taste best.
By user196782 on Oct 10th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff could be a bit quicker, really. sometimes feels like you’re waiting a lifetime for a drink when it's busy. still, once you have your pint in hand, everything gets a bit more relaxed.
By user940157 on Oct 5th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Kind of amazed how spacious it is inside given its spot on Market Street. wasn't expecting such a peaceful feel with chill music in the background and staff that are genuinely warm. quickly became the go-to whenever a bit of downtime was needed.
By user316169 on Sep 29th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Finding a corner at baobab when the place is buzzing with laughter feels spot on. it’s the perfect midweek break with friends.
By user723154 on Sep 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stumbled upon their vegan options and was really impressed. turns out they're among the best in town, which was a nice surprise for a place known more for its laid-back vibe rather than culinary acclaim.
By user188420 on Sep 16th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Amazing breakfast, brunch, & lunch spot with a delicious menu on top of a wonderful, friendly staff! A weekend go-to!
By LG Legg on Sep 6th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Chilling at baobab's backyard, i remember sketching while my mates tried their sandwiches, which were surprisingly affordable. no rush or noise, just a relaxed vibe that was perfect for hanging out and catching up on random conversations.
By user683547 on Aug 7th 2024
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Baobab cafe's chill vibes set it apart from other spots in town, creating the perfect backdrop for those spontaneous chats with new friends over some top vegan bites. 😊
By user807532 on Jul 30th 2024