A comprehensive guide to where the cast of Friends would go for coffee in Durham

Durham University has a strong café culture in its cobbled streets, drawing comparisons to Friends. As we mark over 20 years since its final episode on May 28th, 2004, it’s time to revisit the trends our favourite characters set. The “20 year rule” often predicts the newest trends, and with catwalks and high-street retailers replicating some of the stars’ most iconic looks. So in the name of nostalgia, here’s a comprehensive guide to the Durham cafés that match the style and taste of the lead cast from the 90s sitcom, Friends.

Rachel – Flat White/Whitechurch

Think brunching on salmon and avocado in Flat White, catching up with friends, and dressing for the occasion. Channel Rachel’s classy yet sassy statement pieces – you are the classic Durham girl and you need to embrace it. The haters are just jealous they didn’t get into Durham, I said what I said.

For lectures, opt for a jeans and t-shirt combo. For coffee with friends, think striped joggers and platform shoes. Weekend brunches call for statement roll necks, miniskirts, and boots – Rachel’s style is perfect for a relaxed 90s vibe with an underlying touch of sophistication.

Monica – Chapters/Maple Patisserie

Rustic and homely, think homemade cakes and brownies with coffee. These spots would gain Monica’s approval for their friendly and warm atmosphere for a post-lecture debrief. Often seen in oversized shirts, washed denim, and stylish belts, Monica’s style is highly relatable to Durham students. It is giving refined fit the morning after a slightly messy midweek night out.

High street stores have embraced her look, featuring neutral tones and tailored waistcoats. I could picture Monica in her monochrome flared trousers and fitted waistcoat from the opening titles in the never-ending queue for Chapters. This trend is everywhere, from catwalks to high street mannequins, and now the classic afternoon tea spots of Durham.

Phoebe – Cafédral/Leonard’s/Botanic Gardens

Small business owners and quirky pink doors spring to mind. If you are like Phoebe, you will yearn for the individuality of a small and hidden café. I must admit, it took me a while to even discover where Leonard’s is – Phoebe would take pride in finding it during Freshers’ Week. Being family run, the pretty fairy lights and mismatched teacups allow any aspiring Phoebe to fit in perfectly. To recreate the Phoebe boho vibe, pair chic vintage dresses and clashing prints with eco-friendly faux fur. Remember, more is more when it comes to jewellery, and Durham’s vintage shops are just around the corner.

Joey – Riverview Kitchen/Coviello’s/Library Bar/Swan and Three Cygnets

Not a coffee fan? Prefer a bottomless brunch or a beer while watching sports? You’re Joey. As a treat, you head to Riverview for American-style pancakes or pizza at Coviello’s. If not these, you find yourself watching a football game and socialising with friends at the lively Library Bar or Swan and Three Cygnets. Joey Tribbiani’s style is perfect for the sports-mad friend.

He’s known for casual sweatshirts and loose-fit jeans, but he also embraced the black leather jacket and man bag – thankfully, man bags are still yet to make much of a revival in Durham. You can even recreate Joey’s look whilst there with jeans, trainers, and sports jerseys or university branded clothing (he would love college stash, be so real). The “Joey” effect is already a hit among students, so keep it casual and practical.

Ross – Student Union Café (Kingsgate)/Billy B

Ross was the most academic. He met friends during breaks from lectures and visits to the museum. He is also the most independent, both financially and socially. Perhaps a civilised dinner party? Or a trip to Durham and Northumberland’s beautiful castles or heritage sites? Academic, professional, and a “grown up”, Ross’ style is suited to a working environment that allows him to mix business with leisure. For a blend of casual and professional, Ross would be a fiend of the Billy B café – it would be a very bad day to be an expensive drink in there when Ross’ research is stagnating.

Chandler – Starbucks/Caffe Nero/Costa

These coffee chains are quick and reliable. You know your order, and nothing will change.  If you can relate to Chandler, you rely on stability and practicality – convenience is your number one priority on a busy day, rather than taste or aesthetics. However, you are willing to adapt to your friendship group. The Chandler look is making a comeback – known for sweater vests over shirts and layered pieces, this look is perfect for uni.

Both male and female brands are embracing the grandpa cardigan/vest and shirt combination, ideal for those crisp walks to a 9am when you know you are being judged by everybody walking by in a more presentable state. Alternatively, Chandler’s classic Cuban shirt and relaxed khaki trousers offer a stylish option – however, please do not wear this in Jimmy’s and pretend that you created this fashion sense.

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• A (somewhat) satirical guide to how students at the Durham colleges spend their summer