I first found Foyles cafe through the John Peel show. Peel used to talk a lot about Ray's Jazz Shop and, after a refurbishment, Ray's was situated in the cafe on the first floor of Foyles bookshop. Walking in, my first thought was: "What genius!" It's just an incredible place to sit and listen to fantastic music over a wonderful sound system. Usually, I'd buy a coffee, sit for half an hour listening to what was playing, then leave with a carrier bag full of music that I hadn't previously known I needed.

A few years back, Ray's Jazz moved upstairs as the cafe expanded. Although I miss the days when those two disparate elements sat so comfortably together, there's still a real sense of energy about the cafe. You can feel the presence of all the fabulous literature that's piled ceiling-high just on the other side of the wall.

There's still a stage set up in the corner of the room, so you still feel a sense of a love of music flowing through the place. And, most importantly, they make great coffee.

When I stop there now, I'll find a corner and either watch the world through the window or sit looking back into the room, writing and listening. It's an environment I relax in; the connection – that crossover between music, good coffee and literature – really is powerful. I find there's a nurturing, creative vibe around Foyles; it's the perfect bolthole for anyone who is looking for a little bit of inspiration.
• What to see: Foyles, 113-119 Charing Cross Road, Soho (foyles.co.uk)