Beyond London - 10 regional bakeries putting their towns on the map
From Eccles cakes in Suffolk to sourdough in Wales and croissants in Scotland, these are the British bakeries worth travelling for
When I first embarked on the task of discovering and documenting Britain’s best bakeries I set myself the goal of uncovering the city favourites, but also the specialist independent businesses tucked away in more remote towns and neighbourhoods. The idea was for the book to tell the stories of bakeries worth making a trip for – whether that’s a 5 minute stroll from your home (in pyjamas), or a mini-break designed entirely around a destination bakery. These ten bakeries, all featured in the second edition of my book wonderfully serve the towns they are located in – making wholesome bread and beautiful viennoisserie that both satisfy locals and thrill visiting bakery fans. Imma, Henley-on-Thames The Van Alloys Industrial Estate on the outskirts of Henley isn’t the most glamorous destination, but this unusual location makes Imma even more of a revelation. Owner Tona Erreguin’s previous ventures include two philosophy PhDs and running a fine dining restaurant in Mexico. Preferring the title ‘Head Chef’ to ‘Baker’, she brings culinary flair and creativity to Imma’s goods (the orange curd and meringue pastry, finished with a scalding-hot blast from an iron, is just one example of her anarchic food alchemy). But Imma also do the classics very well. Their Oxford Country Loaf, with a beautiful leafy illustration scored into its crust, was declared the best sourdough in the country at Britain’s Best Loaf 2024 competition (Imma added three more gold medals to their haul the following year). Most lycra-clad visitors swing by after a cycle ride and get their goods to go, but if you’re enjoying a slower morning, there are seats to perch on and coffee made from locally roasted beans. immabakery.com Pump Street Bakery, Orford The dusty-pink facade of this pioneering speciality bakery has become almost as iconic as the sweet creations they sell inside. Pump Street Bakery was one of the first destination artisan bakeries in the UK and are well known for their craft chocolate, made by hand from bean-to-bar using traditional methods. Located in a 15th-century building on the charming Suffolk coast, the bakery was founded in November 2010 by father and daughter team, Chris and Joanna Brennan. You’ll find their chocolate at their boutique across the road, but it’s worth sampling a pain au chocolat with your coffee so you can taste it in action, enveloped in addictively flaky pastry. But this isn’t all they’re known for: pick up other Pump Street favourites from the generously stocked counter, including the bear claw (croissant dough folded over a light almond frangipane, finished with a dusting of icing sugar) or their excellently humble Eccles cake (butter puff pastry punctuated with currants and raisins). pumpstreetchocolate.com Orange Bakery, Watlington It’s easy to adore the father-daughter team behind Orange, who radiate kindness and enthusiasm for everything they do. Al taught his daughter Kitty to bake as a coping mechanism when she suffered from depression, and their shared hobby bloomed into a small business. At one point sleeping next to the oven as it was the only place where she felt safe, Kitty’s love and passion for bread have grown ever since, and she now helps others find the joy in baking with her creative initiatives – most recently the Kitty’s Kits bread mixes. Each item on the menu has a story, from the Albert loaf, a tribute to Kitty’s brother who prefers white sliced to sourdough (delicious toasted with butter and marmite), to the brilliantly creative half-pizza half-bagel ‘bialys’. Not only are the Orange Bakery team talented; they’re promoting a great cause – 100 per cent of the Kitty’s Kits profits go to Breaducation charity, which gives free bread classes and kits to schools, prisons, food banks and community groups. instagram.com/the_orangebakery/ Chez Maitre, Eltham Pierre Maitre spent years working in prestigious pastry kitchens before a stint baking at home during the Covid lockdown inspired him to open Chez Maitre in October 2022. After renovating the venue in the old Eltham railway station entirely himself, Pierre set about creating a traditional French sourdough boulangerie with community at the heart of the operation (the staff’s lovely rapport with locals says it all). Real attention to detail runs through every aspect of Chez Maitre, from the beautiful antique chemist cabinets used to display pastries and cakes, to the speciality coffee beans from UK-based Extract Coffee. The baked goods on offer here show an unrivalled level of expertise and knowledge: immaculately glossy laminated croissants and exemplary baguettes (with awards to prove it) – the perfect vehicle for a classic jambon-beurre sandwich. It is difficult to know what to choose, but the tarts are particularly special. These striking bakes are an ode to the seasonal fruit: sharp, ripe rhubarb sprinkled with crushed pistachios; pineapple and coconut frangipane. Buy them by the slice – or whole, if you’re feeling greedy. chezmaitre.com Gwyn’s, Horsham A gem of the West Sussex food scene, this Horsham bakery is owned by Ben Lines, whose extensive cheffing experience includes a stint at triple-Michelin-starred The Fat Duck. Humble in every sense of the word, Ben chose to honour his mother’s great uncle with the bakery’s name. The purpose-built building is refreshingly spacious, an open-plan bakery and cafe, with clean stylish design by Jon May. Gwyn’s core range includes a variety of sourdough, white and wholegrain loaves, and the pastry section highlights the team’s nut- and sesame-free kitchen with linseed chocolate croissants and seasonal Danishes. But from the sweet pastries, it is the pillowy sugar-encrusted cinnamon buns that are a favourite with regular customers, with their addictive balance of sugar and spice. Order a takeaway coffee (made from ethically sourced beans that are roasted locally, of course) and appreciate the brilliantly cheerful illustrated paper cups by Tom’s friend, Joanna Hu. gwynsbakery.co.uk Oast, Margate This lovable neighbourhood bakery is found in Margate’s hippest district, Cliftonville. Run by husband-and-wife team Will and Charlotte, Oast is named after the buildings synonymous with the Kent countryside (the area’s Oast Houses, with their signature conical roofs, were traditionally used to dry out hops). It is a calming space, with muted dark green tones and communal wooden tables that encourage long, relaxed brunches. Both Will and Charlotte grew up and met in Kent, but baker Will learned his craft in Edinburgh’s artisan bakeries. Oast offers a wide range of breads, from sourdoughs to rye, yeasted loaves to sweet buns, which all sell out fast. The counter offers an enticing selection of pastries (cheesecake cookies and pumpkin-spiced buns are highlights), plus sandwiches to enjoy with a perfectly poured coffee from nearby Curve Coffee Roasters. oastmargate.co.uk Angel Bakery, Abergavenny Abergavenny is a Welsh town known for its artisan food businesses and local creativity, and The Angel Bakery and general store is found at its heart. When it opened in 2016, two bakers (Sophie Kumar and Polly Hunter) made everything from long-fermented sourdough breads to immaculately laminated pastries. The team has grown, thanks to increased demand, and Angel also now supplies wholesale customers. There is a lot of choice when it comes to choosing your breakfast here: fresh fruit Danishes are delightful (often showcasing a seasonal stone fruit like peaches or plums) and their satisfying, sugary brown butter and hazelnut cookies are perfect with a coffee. But it is the assortment of breads that defines this bakery: opt for bouncy focaccia (which also features in their hefty sandwiches) or one of their five organic sourdough loaves. Set within the bakery, the shop is a wonder emporium of artisan foods and produce, all sourced from like-minded, eco-conscious companies. theangelbakery.com Aran Bakery, Dunkeld If you are journeying to the Highlands, stop here en route. Found in the quaint town of Dunkeld, Great British Bake Off alum Flora Shedden is behind this beautiful business, with its whimsical floral entrance and chic, minimalist branding. ‘Aran’ is an old Gaelic word meaning ‘bread of loaf’, and the name is apt: with seeded rolls and cheddar and kimchi toasties, bread is at the centre of the offering. Flavour and style go hand-in-hand with everything Flora creates, from the loaves stacked high on the bakery counter to the Danishes adorning her social media feed (including praline or potato dauphinoise). Aran is a feast for the eyes. There are a few places to perch inside, but better to grab your goodies and wander round the picturesque town. aran-bakery.com Bostock, North Berwick Everything that comes out of these ovens is reliably delicious, from sourdough breads to precise, French-style viennoiserie. The bakery is co-owned by Lindsay and Ross Baxter, with Ross having trained with Michelin star chefs across the country (winning the Scottish Food Awards’ Pâtissier of the Year in 2018), so it’s no surprise that Bostock’s bakes are brilliant. Named after a French pastry traditionally made with leftover bread and almonds, Bostock’s version is unique, made using a croissant loaf as the base. Dab hands at all things dough, they are known for their sourdough bread (made over 36 hours with organic flour) and bulky almond croissants, as well as the eponymous bostocks. The original bakery, a staple on the high street, can feel cramped at peak hours, but the newer East Linton branch is airier, popular with larger groups and cyclists cruising along the dramatic North Berwick coastline. bostockbakery.co.uk Rye Bakery, Frome Just off Frome’s main street, in a glorious, lovingly restored former church, is Rye Bakery. Set up in 2017 by enthusiastic Frome locals Owen and Amy, the bakery was born from a seriously foodie background: Owen spent over ten years honing his skills working with bakers around the world, specialising in viennoiserie and sourdough bread, and met Amy (who previously cooked at Owen’s mum’s cafe) through their shared love of food. After a run of pop-ups making pizzas at festivals and markets, the couple started Rye, showcasing their passion for local grains to make their celebrated sourdough. The space is grand but has a welcoming feel, bustling with kids or groups of friends eager to relax over a baked snack and a good cup of coffee. Everything on the Rye counter is utterly divine, from glossy croissants to dense chocolatey brownies – and the lunch menu will convince you to stay for your next meal, too. rye-bakery.com Britain’s Best Bakeries (2nd Edition) by Milly Kenny-Ryder is £22.95 and is out now. 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From top-notch brunches and bakeries to bao buns and special occasion restaurants, this is an insider guide to where to eat in Tooting
Tooting doesn’t try too hard, with all the grit and authenticity a true London neighbourhood should have, but with a sprinkling of gentrification. This exciting mix ensures it’s satisfyingly varied for locals and thrillingly unexpected for occasional visitors. Speciality coffee and independent bakery fans will be delighted with the offering, while foodies looking for something different to sink their teeth into will rush with anticipation to the Afghan, Spanish and Taiwanese outposts. For more south London restaurant recommendations, check out our guides to the best restaurants in Battersea or the best restaurants in Brixton. Best places to eat and drink in Tooting Juliet's Quality Foods My local happy place and quite honestly one of the reasons I started looking to live in Tooting. This is an Aussie-style brunch spot everyone wants within walking distance. Uber-talented Julian Porter is at the helm and the menu is filled with his travel-inspired dishes. But it’s the trusty classics like Sweet Maria (sweetcorn fritters with grilled halloumi, tomato, coriander, avocado and homemade kasundi sauce) that ensure this cool spot is always busy. I have been known to Deliveroo the dark chocolate, marshmallow and sea salt cookies to my house in sugar-desperate moments. @julietsqualityfoods Cut the Mustard While some bakeries produce overly sweet hybrid bakes to follow the trends, Cut the Mustard keeps things classic with unbeatable French-style viennoiserie. This small scale bakery has a handful of branches across south-west London and continues to grow. Expect perfectly poured coffee (from UK roastery Campbell & Syme), buttery pain an chocolats and cakes so moist it will dictate an afternoon tea break. cutthemustardcafe.com The Little Taperia This charming restaurant finds itself on every top Tooting eats list for good reason. Spanish classics reign supreme here – pan con tomate, croquetas de jamón and tortilla sit alongside its own creations (morcilla scotch eggs never leave the menu due to popularity). Grab a cosy corner table with a group of friends and make your way through the tempting menu. Open every day for lunch and dinner, it is a failsafe place to have a flavour-filled meal. thelittletaperia.co.uk Watan A family-run restaurant celebrated for its warm hospitality and authentic Afghan and Pakistani cuisine. The shiny dining room is expansive and the extensive menu can be overwhelming, so I recommend asking your waiter for suggestions. If in doubt, the Afghani mixed grill is a good place to start – a platter stacked high with delicious marinated meats and fragrant rice. watanrestaurant.co.uk/tooting Milk Run Little sister of the hyped Balham brunch hang-out Milk, this bakery and café prides itself on sell-out creative pastries and speciality coffee. The pale pink interiors and terracotta tiles may tick all the Instagram boxes but it is definitely not style over substance here. Choose a special – the team works wonders with seasonal fruit – or opt for my favourite, the crème brûlée danish, a flaky, creamy wonder. milk.london/milkrun Smoke & Salt In an area awash with casual dining options, Smoke & Salt offers something a bit more refined but without the pretense. It started out as a pop-up but is now a Michelin-recognised restaurant. The interiors are simple and allow you to focus on the energetic open kitchen. Visit for a special dinner – seasonal tasting menus are surprisingly affordable and often feature wood-smoked and fired dishes. smokeandsalt.com Daddy Bao When I lived in Peckham, Mr Bao was my go-to for fun fluffy buns. Now I live in Tooting, its second branch, Daddy Bao, is my local for Taiwanese cuisine. It’s a buzzy place to enjoy a plum wine negroni with fried chicken, handmade dumplings and, of course, a selection of bao (the pork belly with house pickles and roasted peanut is my favourite). daddybao.co.uk Check out more London restaurant guides: Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Battersea Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in Kings Cross Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
Best restaurants in Oxford: where to eat, drink and stay
Explore Oxford's French wine bars, cheese shops and cafés hidden down passages between ancient university college buildings
Looking for Oxford restaurants to try? Check out our ideas for eating and drinking in the university city, from Jericho to Summertown and beyond… For more exciting restaurants and weekend ideas for food lovers, check out our best UK city breaks and foodie day trips from London by train. For more city guides, discover the best restaurants in Bristol, best restaurants in Cambridge and best restaurants in Cheltenham. Jump to: The best places to eat and drink in Oxford Where to stay in Oxford Best places to eat and drink in Oxford Pompette – for French fare and wine Pompette, meaning tipsy in French, is run by husband-and-wife duo Laura and Pascal Wiedemann. The focus is on French classics with European influences, from the food to the design: start with warm bread (all of which comes from local French bakery Gatineau), slathered with butter and sprinkled with sea salt from dinky pots on the table. Order the piping hot croquettes to share, oozing with a gently spiced roux sauce and nuggets of ham. Desserts are not to be missed, from hearty choux buns laced with boozy cherries and a glossy chocolate sauce to crisp meringues loaded with lightly-whipped vanilla cream, chunks of juicy rhubarb and pistachios. Wine is the focus when it comes to drinks, from natural and low-intervention to sweet orange options from Georgia but it’s the French wines that really shine. pompetterestaurant.co.uk Permit Room – for Indian sharing plates The sister restaurant to Dishoom, Permit Room now has three locations, with a fourth opening in May 2025, that all embrace the now familiar Irani café vibe of the popular restaurant. Tucked down one of Oxford’s oldest city streets, Permit Room serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner with menus that feature all the Dishoom favourites, refreshing cocktails and its famous house chai. As expected, this place is all about sharing, no matter your party size, so make sure you pick something from each section of the menu. We’d say four to five plates for a table of two. The crispy spinach chaat is a light and surprisingly moreish way to start your meal, and we recommend the chicken pick-me-ups for a hands-on dish. Dishoom’s signature black dhal is always a must-order, cooked for 24 hours for a rich and smoky dish, perfect with a side of hot, fresh naan or rice. The drinks menu has ample choice of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Make sure to book your table ahead as this venue gets busy. permitroom.co.uk Spiced Roots – for Caribbean food Various Caribbean influences can be found on the menu at Spiced Roots in Oxford. Run by friends Jumoke Brewster and Michael Krah, dishes to look out for include include buljol (a traditional salad of salt cod, peppers, chillies and tomatoes) transformed into croquettes, mellow curry goat, and Guyanese pepperpot beef shin, while vegans will delight in jerk tempeh and stewed pigeon peas. spicedroots.com The Harcourt Arms – for Spanish-inspired bar snacks, open fires and Sunday roasts One of the latest pubs to undergo a refurb in the Oxford area is the 17th-century The Harcourt Arms. Head chef Olly Oakley (brother Will is GM) has peppered the menus with nods to Spain through bar snacks such as Friggitelli peppers, an enthusiastic use of rabbit as both chops and in rice dishes, and steaks cooked in a Josper charcoal oven. There’s a cosy and comfortable bar as well as a dining room, so you can eat as casually as you like. Local beers feature, there’s a splendid Sunday lunch which includes coal-fired carrots and, if you can’t make it home, book one of the ultra-comfy rooms upstairs. theharcourtarms.com Arbequina – for tapas Housed in a former chemist’s building (and the charming original sign still remains on the exterior) this celebrated, buzzy tapas bar is always busy with hungry, happy diners. The restaurant is simply decorated with functional furniture and a stainless steel bar for those keen to have a more interactive experience. The concise menu is approachable and authentic with a range of small plates for picking and larger dishes for sharing, and a confident wine list to accompany. Let the friendly staff guide you but don’t miss the irresistible tortilla and the Santiago tart for dessert. arbequina.co.uk Hamblin – for baked goods Hamblin is found on the outskirts of Oxford, in a flurry of popular shops and cafes. The bakery was opened in October 2018 by Hugo Thurston and Kate Hamblin, who proudly make all their bread with stone ground flour made from organic wheat and rye, all grown within fifty miles of the bakery. Out back, the bakers work hard to produce as much as they can, while the smiley staff in the shop talk customers through the tempting selection. There are sweet and savoury options to satisfy any craving; hearty sausage rolls and pizzas, addictive cinnamon buns and melt in the mouth chocolate cookies. If you are organised, you can order the day’s treats online and collect before 1pm each day, to avoid disappointment as they always sell out! hamblinbread.co.uk Missing Bean – for a gourmet coffee shop Missing Bean were, arguably the first to introduce speciality coffee to Oxford, and their cafes offer an alternative to the more traditional tearooms. The company opened their original site in central Oxford in 2009, tucked away on Turl Street. In 2014 they opened the roastery site and café in East Oxford, a larger space where you can relax with a drink and pastry (from their own bakery) while watching the beans being roasted each day. Both founders, Ori Halup and Vicky Troth, experienced the fast evolving third wave coffee scene in Australia before coming to the UK to introduce Oxford to better, sustainably sourced coffee. The diverse range of coffees, from the classic smooth blends to more quirky fruity specials have made their coffee popular both in their own cafes and across their wholesale clients. themissingbean.co.uk 2 North Parade Produce – for local produce 2 North Parade opened in September 2013, a tiny neighbourhood store run by Peter Slade and Victoria Borondo. The humble pair really know their stuff and only offer the very best produce, working closely with farmers and suppliers who focus on the quality, integrity and provenance. The shelves are heaving with abundant seasonal and rare fruit and vegetables, British farmhouse cheeses and charcuterie, homemade cakes and locally roasted coffee. If you are staying in self-catering accommodation this is the place to stock up your larder! 2northparade.com Cherwell Boathouse – for modern European For a lunch with a view book a table at Cherwell Boathouse, an Oxford institution serving a modern European menu (expect everything from Jerusulem artichoke arancini to guinea fowl with celeriac fondant). On our visit we tried crisp brown shrimp fritters with a gently spiced carrot and caraway purée and sweet onion chutney. Pink duck breast came in a rich blood orange sauce with tender kale and buttery Pommes Anna, but desserts are where it really impressed. A fudgy slice of sticky toffee pudding with a slice of caramelised banana perched on top had the right balance of sweetness, with a rich caramel sauce and quenelle of cooling milk sorbet, while biscuit nuggets added a welcome hint of salt. cherwellboathouse.co.uk Edamame – for Japanese Peter Galpin and his Japanese wife, Mieko, set up Edamame in 1998 with the intention of creating an inviting, hole-in-the-wall eatery for guests to enjoy authentic Japanese home cooking. There are no reservations and tables are shared to help keep the prices low and the seating efficient in what is a tiny restaurant. Edamame offers a lunch-only menu Wednesday to Sunday lunchtimes, a sushi-only menu on Thursday early evenings, and a dinner-only menu on Friday and Saturday early evenings. Peter says: “We are delighted that for the last three years the Japanese government has awarded us with exclusive recognition as being Oxford’s only truly authentic Japanese eatery.” edamame.co.uk The Handle Bar Café and Kitchen – for cosy breakfast or brunch Whether you need your bike fixing, or just fancy a chai masala tea, the Handle Bar Café and Kitchen can provide. Dig into hearty veggie breakfasts complete with plantain chips and smashed avocado for brunch (and order a pot of JING loose-leaf tea on the side). Or, save yourself for roast squash salads with feta and dukkah come lunchtime. If you’re after something stronger, head downstairs to Le Bar, a 1920s-style speakeasy serving tea-infused cocktails, from the Chai Chai Again (a concoction of bourbon, chai spice-infused sweet vermouth and Campari) to Chamo Sour (chamomile-infused rye whiskey, fresh lemon, sugar and egg white). handlebaroxford.co.uk Oli’s Thai – for Thai It’s not far from East Oxford’s hip, studenty Cowley Road, but hidden amid houses on an unassuming suburban street, Oli’s Thai is deliberately discreet. This bright, simple canteen has become one of Oxford’s hottest restaurant – such is the power of Ladd’s cooking. The shelves are decorated with Thai groceries but she is no slave to tradition. Instead, Ladd uses Western techniques confidently (confiting duck for her panang dish, slow-cooking pork for her green curry), to bring a new depth to dishes beyond their radiant Thai seasoning. The oven-roasted pork belly on rice in a dark soy broth – its glassy crackling swathed in a fresh chilli and lemongrass paste – is a glorious example of this East-meets-West process. olisthai.com Gee's Restaurant and Bar – for rustic, Mediterranean dining Housed in a listed Victorian conservatory, this cosy restaurant on the Banbury Road, just north of the University Parks, has been going strong since 1989. Flooded with natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows, the light and airy space has a greenhouse vibe, with its tiled floors and potted olive trees. From weekend brunches to Sunday roasts, the Mediterranean inspired menu focuses on cooking over fire. Dig into sweet potato and oregano risotto, burrata with rainbow chard and sides of wood fired courgettes with beetroot and dill. Puddings include British classics like pear and apple crumble and sticky toffee pudding, while crema catalana and chocolate nemesis take inspiration from Spain and Italy. gees-restaurant.co.uk Jericho Cheese Company – for cheese and sourdough Set up in 2016 by an ex-Neal’s Yard Dairy cheesemonger, the shop sells a variety of cheeses from across the British Isles. Ask the shop’s enthusiastic staff for a recommendation; options range from raw Isle of Mull cheddar to Suffolk’s St Jude. Other shelves are stocked with loaves of sourdough, local free-range eggs, jars of Radnor Preserves chutney and bottles of Herefordshire’s Townsend Farm apple juice, while a fridge holds Neal’s Yard yogurt and Kentish butter. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, book in for one of the shop’s monthly evening cheese and wine tastings. jerichocheese.co.uk Oxford Covered Market – for food market dishes This indoor market doesn’t just sell food but it’s worth a visit to stock up on fruit, vegetables and local beers. Wander down the aisles, stopping off at Bonners Fruit and Veg for a colourful array of seasonal produce before heading to Teadrop, a tiny micropub serving cask ales to drink in, as well as local draught and bottled beers to takeaway. If gelato is what you’re after, head to iScream for scoops of chocolate, hazelnut and stracciatella. Cream and milk comes from Guernsey cows in Wiltshire, while the production equipment comes direct from Italy. Classic Italian flavours include pistachio, coffee and hazelnut or, in the summer, keep cool with a cone of lemon sorbetto. oxford-coveredmarket.co.uk Objects of Use – for kitchen accessories Be sure to check out Objects of Use while you’re on Market Street. A kitchen shop selling only useful, albeit beautiful, objects, it acts as a treasure trove for cooks, with wooden tables laden with cast-iron baking tins, Japanese brass trivets, Korean kettles, can openers and no less than 25 different brushes, from vegetable brush no. 1 to a three-ring dusting brush. objectsofuse.com G & D's Café – for ice cream An Oxford institution, G & D's (originally George and Davis) now has three branches across the city, but the original still stands proudly in Jericho. Open from 8am until midnight every day, it’s the place to head to (or the central St Aldate's branch) for a take-away cone to lick while you sight-see. All made on site, flavours veer towards student-friendly favourites, from classic vanilla to Oxford Blue (blueberry) and Daim Bar Crunch. Don’t see anything that takes your fancy? Sign the petition book in each of the cafés, and if your flavour suggestion gets enough support, it’ll go on the menu. The cafés serve more than just cones, with ice cream sundaes, banana splits and bagels all best-sellers too. gdcafe.com New Ground Coffee – for top-notch coffee and waffles Started by Dickon and Joel (who believe in great coffee and social justice in equal measure), New Ground Coffee is an Oxford-based social enterprise that trains and employs ex-offenders. As well as selling their beans (these come in beautifully sleek white packaging, with a simple pop of colour to distinguish the different blends), they have a speciality coffee bar where you can sit in and sip. Interiors are minimalist, with white-washed walls, black stools and birch ply tables. As well as top-notch drinks, you can stock up on moreish stroopwaffles supplied by Bath-based Dutchboy Waffles. newgroundcoffee.com Society Café – for speciality coffee Society Café is a vibrant space that acts as a hub for local creatives. As fans of its sister branches in Bath and Bristol will know, this café is one for real coffee lovers. Peruse an open counter laden with squidgy almond croissants, slabs of gooey peanut butter brownies and slices of cinnamon and walnut loaf while you decide on your coffee. Classic options include flat whites, cappuccinos and espressos (helpfully labelled with tasting notes), all made with Origin beans – which you can buy in bags to take away. Various guest coffees are available too, sourced from suppliers such as Horsham Coffee Roaster and Belfast’s Bailies Coffee Roasters. If you fancy something caffeine-free, grab a bottle of Jarr kombucha, or a hot chocolate made with Willies Cocoa. society-cafe.com Where to stay in Oxford and Oxfordshire The Porterhouse Only a five-minute stroll from the station, The Porterhouse is a restaurant-with-rooms that makes the perfect base camp for a weekend in the city. Downstairs, a bar and restaurant focus solely on steaks cooked over charcoal, while seven bedrooms upstairs are simply yet stylishly furnished. Midnight-blue walls, teal velvet headboards and exposed filament lightbulbs add a sense of modern luxury, while exposed wooden floors and latch windows give it a timeless townhouse feel. A communal help-yourself fridge comes stocked with milk and bottles of water, with a bowl of fruit set above it. If steak is what you fancy, head downstairs hungry. All steaks are cooked within a bertha (a type of indoor charcoal oven) using charcoal sourced from the Oxford Charcoal Company to give them a smoky flavour. If there are two of you, opt for the juicy cote de boeuf, aged for 35 days, or, if you’re a party of four, go for the Porterhouse which comes with both sirloin and fillet. Fluffy fries and crisp walnut salads come on the side, and you can choose between a selection of sauces to drizzle on top (our money is on the punchy salsa verde). A succinct yet impressive gin menu is where it’s at in drinks terms, with eight to choose from including Toad dry gin and Twisting Spirits earl grey, both of which come from Oxford. Try them with a splash of tonic, or get them made into negronis. Doubles from £190 per night, check availability at booking.com Artist Residence In a sleepy village in rural Oxfordshire Justin and Charlie Salisbury, the duo behind quirky Artist Residence hotel group, restored a 16th century Cotswold-stone farmhouse and opened it as their fourth property, Mr Hanbury’s Masons Arms. A community-focused pub, with five perfectly put-together bedrooms upstairs, Mr Hanbury’s (the name is a fictional nod to colourful characters associated with the pub historically) is split into two areas – a cosy bar area with a classic pub menu (the heart of South Leigh village life) and a more sophisticated dining room where guests can enjoy a fine dining menu beneath up-cycled crystal decanter lamp shades. After fine-tuning his skills in professional kitchens across the UK (most notably Michelin-starred gastropub, the Pony & Trap, in Somerset), young talented chef Leon Smith has taken the reigns at Mr Hanbury’s Masons Arms. Hyper-local produce from the Oxfordshire countryside is the order of the day, whether that’s lamb from just across the road or kohlrabi from Leon’s own allotment. And everything is homemade, from elderflower-infused Aperol to brighten up punchy negronis, and wild nettle puree folded into pan-fried homemade gnocchi to toasted marshmallows served with strawberries and lime curd for pud. Doubles from £182 per night, <a href="https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-100565798-11795693?sid=olivemagazine-85697&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgb%2Fartist-residence-oxfordshire-south-leigh1.en-gb.html%3Faid%3D318615%3Blabel%3DEnglish_United_Kingdom_EN_GB_29562089065-V39waLuA6GZJTAO%252A2fCNrAS217243460100%253Apl%253Ata%253Ap1%253Ap2%253Aac%253Aap%253Aneg%253Afi159055020334%253Atidsa-301067192779%253Alp1007149%253Ali%253Adec%253Adm%3Bsid%3Dc1571dc47fba14a01abc8f1d668ad838%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D277389702_106815746_0_0_0%3Bcheckin%3D2022-02-24%3Bcheckout%3D2022-02-25%3Bdest_id%3D-2604911%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D277389702_106815746_0_0_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D277389702_106815746_0_0_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D277389702_106815746_0_0_0__27830%3Bsrepoch%3D1642762406%3Bsrpvid%3Da5a14c92e322062b%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-id="iframe-0-anchor-38">check availability at booking.com or mrandmrssmith.com Click here to read our full review of Artist Residence, Oxfordshire Mollie's Motel A stylish, American-style roadside motel and diner from the Soho House Group, Mollie's Motel livens up the A420 motorway outside Oxford. Though purposefully low-key (to keep rates affordable), this unique space is sealed with the signature Soho House Group stamp. The lobby-cum-lounge-cum-general store is a calm, contemporary hang out with squishy leather sofas, a large reclaimed oak table, self-serve tea and coffee station, and retro shelves lined wit jugs, plants and books. The 79 rooms are compact and simply furnished while maintaining a homely style – blonde wood panels adorn pale green walls, peachy velvet chairs sit in the windows, and globe wall lights cast a warming glow. There aren’t lots of extras, but luxurious touches come in the form of Egyptian cotton sheets on kingsize beds and Cowshed toiletries in epic rainforest showers. Across the car park, the motel’s main dining space, Mollie’s Diner, is full of locals venturing out for a casually glam dinner, Soho House members, and people passing through on their travels (there’s even a drive-thru option). Start with a round of cocktails (smooth espresso martinis or the refreshing Mollie’s Margarita) and some cheesy nachos before tucking into diner classics. It’s worth saving room for a slice of homemade apple pie, spooned out at the table from a huge ceramic dish. Pieces of cinnamon-laced apple are covered with crusty pastry and served with a dinky jug of cream. Breakfast is also served in Mollie’s Diner, with an all-day menu of fry-ups (try the veggie platter laden with grilled corn on the cob, avocado, Portobello mushrooms, croquette-style hash browns, eggs and toast); and Bargain Baps piled with the likes of smoked salmon and cream cheese or sausage and egg. Doubles from £72, check availability at booking.com Milly’s new book ‘Oxfordshire’ by @weekendjournals is now available to pre-order here. 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Discover the best bakeries to try in London, whether you're after perfectly-proved pain au chocolat, unique sticky buns or the ultimate choc chip cookie
London's bakery boom is showing no signs of slowing down – every week there is a new opening to queue up for or a one-off collaboration bake to try. In all honesty, there are so many great, interesting new bakeries in the UK right now I feel I could fill a whole book of worthy and delicious businesses. It can be tiring to differentiate and decide where to spend your time and money (a beautifully hand-crafted seasonal danish could easily cost you £6-7); my recommendation? Avoid the sugary sweet chains and head to these unique bakeries, all doing something a little bit different… For more London restaurant guides, check out our guides to the best pizza places in London, best London wine bars and best London pubs with great food, and find more of the UK's best bakeries in Milly's book, Britain's Best Bakeries, here. 10 unique bakeries in London Arôme Arôme have two central London spots, dedicated to classic French viennoiserie with an Asian twist. The Instagram-friendly counter is reliably alluring with rows of their iconic honey-toast, baskets of perfectly-proved pain au chocolat, and inventive savoury creations – the miso bacon escargot is an addictive umami hit. The display is refreshed constantly as it sells fast, and the bakers work relentlessly throughout the morning. The minimalist spaces are designed by Taiwanese artist and architect Rain Wu, who has ensured the interiors are as beautiful and considered as the bakes. instagram.com/aromebakerylondon Bunhead Herne Hill’s humble Bunhead opened just a year ago - when self-taught baker Sara Assad-Mannings took the plunge to move her home lockdown business to a permanent site to give customers a taste of her Palestinian flavours. It may be a small shop, but the crew here have endless personality and charm, and a visit will always put a smile on your face. There are sweet and savoury buns to choose from – anything from Rhubarb, Rose & Sumac to Shatta & Cheddar. bunheadbakery.com Toad Toad don’t take themselves too seriously. The tiny Camberwell bakery always has a fun collection of creative bakes – from the everything bagel croissant to the sweet and salty chocolate soy sauce cookie, and on Valentines Day you may even get a branded Toad condom with your pastry! They often collaborate with restaurants and chefs to bring hybrid recipes to the bakery – the cacio e pepe croissant with pasta restaurant Forza Win was unusual and brilliant. The imaginative owners Rebecca Spaven and Oliver Costello fine-tuned their craft working at Ottolenghi and Fortitude and have all the skills required for classic baking but choose to inject a bit of fun at their cult bakery. The locals are devoted to Toad and on the weekends you’ll spot the queue long before the bakery. toadbakery.com Luminary Bakery A bakery with a cause. Bakery founder Alice Williams set up Luminary to support women with a social or economic disadvantage – offering courses, training and employment opportunities – it is an empowering place to work or visit. The range of cakes and cookies will satisfy any sweet craving and you can also order subscription boxes to enjoy at home. There are now locations in Stoke Newington and Camden. luminarybakery.com Chai Guys Bakehouse The Chai Guys team are best known for their unbeatable chai served up in Spitalfields market (now also found in Covent Garden and Canary Wharf). Their only ‘Bakehouse’ site is a small bakery found in the heart of Portobello, tucked in next door to the Electric Cinema. Order a cup of fragrant chai to accompany one of their perfectly laminated pastries – many of which take inspiration from the Indian spices used in their drinks. The masala pain Suisse is a wonder, but the simple classics are also made to perfection – with their considered approach to high quality ingredients like butter and chocolate ensuring the taste is always paramount. chaiguys.shop/pages/chai-guys-bakehouse Common Breads This Lebanese bakery in Victoria has an array of breads and pastries showcasing the best Middle Eastern flavours. The wonderful scent of freshly baked dough wafts down the street and they have a loyal fanbase of office workers who visit for a takeaway coffee and filled ka’ak for lunch. Pick from the bountiful counter or opt for an item from the made-to-order menu on the wall. instagram.com/commonbreads/ Kossoffs Many of London’s best bakeries have popped up in the last few years but Kossoffs is a North London institution which began in the 1920s by Wolf Kossoff, and has continued to flourish through several generations of the family. Today, Kossoffs business is found in Kentish Town where couple Aaron Kossoff and Jo Clarke run it together. It is an airy modern bakery with an abundant counter heaving with viennoiserie and breads. The triple baked almond croissant is a must with your morning coffee, or visit later in the day for a hearty sandwich made with the best focaccia. kossoffs.com E5 Bakehouse This East London venue has garnered a cult following thanks to its whole-hearted approach to baking. The team are meticulous about where their ingredients come from, aiming to create bread which is as fresh and flavoursome as possible. To ensure the best quality and taste they now mill their own flour on site, with a Astrié stone mill, giving them ultimate control over their product. Found under the arches of London Fields overground station it is a jolly place to spend time, but particularly comes alive at the weekend with a lively organic brunch on offer. e5bakehouse.com Don’t Tell Dad Restaurant by night, bakery by day… it’s a format lots of businesses are adopting to ensure a more profitable, round the clock operation. The queues start early for this charming Queen’s Park eatery. Locals pick up their daily loaf of bread but I like the ever-changing seasonal danishes – the Seville orange and almond is a hit. Head Baker Keren Sternberg is dedicated to the creative viennoiserie and there is always something new to try. Because the bakery sits within the restaurant, there are lovely tables to sit at to really relish and enjoy your pastry and coffee, a rarity for London bakeries. donttelldad.co.uk Panadera This friendly Filipino bakery started life in Kentish Town before moving to its current location in Marylebone, the creation of owner Florence Mae. The clean minimalist interiors allow the brightly coloured drinks (iced ube matcha is a must) and satisfying sandos to stand out. There are classic bakes like their brown butter cookies or more traditional recipes from the Philippines, like their famous fluffy pandesal buns. panaderabakery.com Check out more London restaurant guides here Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Battersea Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Kings Cross Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
Creative cruffins, lively pizza spots and coral-pink rose gin and tonics are the highlights in this artsy coastal town
Looking for Penzance restaurants? Here are our favourite restaurants in the Cornish town. Although Penzance may lack the cachet of neighbouring St Ives and Padstow, it has a rootsy, sea-blown charm that feels gutsier than many of Cornwall’s harbour towns. Its streets and shopping arcades are ramshackle and bohemian, and the place is bathed in that same soft, wispy light that has inspired artists for centuries. Drawn by its no-fuss atmosphere and supportive community, artisans have moved in, seeking an affordable, unpretentious place to develop their products. For more travel inspiration, check out our guide to the best Cornwall hotels for food lovers and the best restaurants in Cornwall. Jump to: Best places to eat and drink in Penzance Where to stay in Penzance Best places to eat and drink in Penzance Loafs This neighbourhood bakery, found in the heart of Penzance, is a one-stop shop for all things baked, from hearty sausage rolls and sandwiches, to creative cruffins and all the classics in-between. Speciality coffee is on offer to complement your pastry, made using beans from the brilliant Square Mile Coffee Roasters. The black-tiled exterior and fun branding shows it doesn't take itself too seriously, but when it comes to bread and croissants, it's not messing around. instagram.com/loafsbakery/ Barbican Bistro Barbican Bistro is a family affair, run by local brothers Jack and Jay Liddicoat. The duo pride themselves on championing suppliers from the area, including fish from their dad Shane, who delivers it straight off the boat from Newlyn. The charming historic building overlooks Penzance Harbour and has a menu of small plates to share – highlights include crab croquettes with brown crab mayo and lemon sole fillets with wild mushrooms and garlic. barbicanbistro.com Pizza Plz Found on Market Jew Street in the very centre of town, Pizza Plz serves Neapolitan-inspired pizza and Italian bar snacks. The lively corner spot offers a few sit-in stools, but most choose to takeaway their order. The menu features all the familiar favourites alongside a few seasonal specials, like the popular ‘The Pleeze Burger’ pizza. A small drinks menu includes Italian and local Cornish beers, and devoted fans can pick up some quirky Pizza Plz merch. pizzaplz.co.uk 45 Queen Street Tucked away on (as the name suggests) 45 Queen Street, this friendly spot is a neighbourhood bar, kitchen, deli and shop that's open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, but also regularly used for events. Owned and run by couple Hannah and Sam, the business has evolved since they took over the once-abandoned warehouse in 2017. Now the venue is beautiful and bustling, serving wholesome seasonal plates and a drinks list features cocktails using their own Tinkture rose gin. 45queenst.com Polgoon Vineyard Polgoon is a vineyard and orchard just outside Penzance that offers tours and wine tastings on a 24-acre estate. Owners Kim and John Coulson battle against the Cornish climate to produce up to 30,000 bottles of wines a year, as well as a range of ciders and juices. Sit under the dappled shade of the site’s vine-wrapped courtyard café and sip chilled bacchus and eat a chunky wedge of crab sandwich. Inheriting the land with a house, the family at first struggled to know what to do with it. They opted for a vineyard, hand-planted 3,000 vines, paid their children 5p for each snail they collected and, four years later, picked their first harvest. The result is on sale in the vineyard’s shop, along with local crisps and ciders, seaweeds and salts, teas and chocolates, ice creams, honey, beer, relishes and preserves. polgoon.com Penzance Farmer’s Market For fresh produce, Penzance Farmers’ Market is the place. Held every Friday in St John’s Hall, its gingham-covered tables are laden with fruit and vegetables, just-baked breads, cakes, Cornish cheeses and Wild Smoked’s products. penzancefarmersmarket.wordpress.com Where to stay in Penzance Artist Residence hotel A coolly colourful 17-bedroom hotel in Penzance’s old quarter, this hotel has a relaxed vibe (checked blankets, yellow Roberts radios, contemporary artworks) and a retro-chic restaurant and bar, The Cornish Barn. The menu includes meat and fish from its in-house smokehouse and tapas-style dishes of deep-fried squid with chilli, lime and salt, and parsnip rösti with caramelised shallots and goat’s cheese. Dessert includes rum-infused crème brûlée, hazelnut brittle and homemade banana ice cream. artistresidencecornwall.co.uk Doubles from £143, check availability at booking.com or mrandmrssmith.com Chapel House Chapel House is a graceful, light-filled Georgian home in Penzance’s Old Quarter, where white walls are hung with landscape paintings by students at nearby Newlyn School of Art and where antique furniture sits alongside stylish Nordic pieces. The six rooms all have sea views, painted white floors and vibrant modern artworks. The huge, stone-flagged, kitchen diner in the basement is the scene of owner Susan’s regular weekend suppers, and lengthy brunches. Susan champions local producers, rarely straying far from Penzance to buy ingredients. Try the breakfast speciality: cod’s roe, smoked bacon, samphire and a poached egg. It’s a cheap, nutritious dish and it’s easy to see how it became a favourite with fishermen. Check rates and availability at chapelhousepz.co.uk More travel inspiration... Best restaurants in Brighton Best restaurants in the Cotswolds Best restaurants in Northumberland Best restaurants in Whitstable 14 small towns across the UK every foodie should visit The UK's best pubs with rooms UK boutique hotels for food lovers 10 exciting UK city breaks for food lovers Best restaurants with rooms UK spa hotels for food lovers Best romantic UK hotels Best seaside staycations 13 day trips from London by train
Best restaurants in Cornwall: where to eat and drink
Food writer and photographer Camille Kenny-Ryder picks the best places to eat and drink in Cornwall, plus a must-visit town and foodie activities in the area
The scenery, the sea air and some of the country’s very best produce… Cornwall has a lot to offer, especially when it comes to food. Destination expert, Milly Kenny-Ryder, author of Weekend Journals, tells us where to feast on the finest fare from pub grub to seafood platters, fine dining to seaside picnics. Read on to discover the best restaurants in Cornwall – from neighbourhood bistros to fine dining and pubs serving top-notch seafood. While you're here, find out where to stay in Cornwall, or for more like this, check out our guides to the best restaurants in the Cotswolds, the best restaurants in the Lake District, best restaurants in Bournemouth and best restaurants in Brighton. Jump to: olive's top 10 best restaurants in Cornwall Foodie town spotlight: Newlyn Where to stay in Cornwall Foodie day trips around Cornwall olive's top 10 best places to eat and drink in Cornwall We've included insider information about what to order where below, plus plenty more places to visit, but for those who want a quick insight into our favourite spots in the city, here are Camille's picks. For neighbourhood bistro vibes: Flora at Trelowarren Estate Farm to fine dining: Crocadon Farm Seafood pub: Gurnard's Head The seafront spot: The Rocket Store Wine bar chic: St Eia Tiny taproom: The Verdant Seafood Bar For Cornish produce: Tre, Pol & Pen farm shop Harbourside brews: Origin Roastery The best bakery: Gorse The local hangout: Four Boys Foodie town spotlight: Newlyn Newlyn is located in south-west Cornwall, next door to the more familiar Penzance. It is a sleepy fishing village and port, and is home to the celebrated fish market that supplies many of Cornwall’s best kitchens. Start the day with a coffee at Lovett’s which uses locally roasted Origin beans and showcases sweet treats from Oona’s Cakes. Lovett’s operates as a specialist wine bar in the evenings so there is reason to go back later in the day. Argoe is found on the water’s edge, serving fresh seafood in a wood-clad building, the succinct menu dictated by the morning’s catch. Tolcarne Inn is the perfect spot for Sunday lunch, a charming historic maritime pub with Ben Tunnicliffe at the helm. An evening meal is best enjoyed at Mackerel Sky, a tiny restaurant lovingly run by Nina and Jamie MacLean, and serves tasty seafood-focussed small plates, from crab nachos to crispy sole with katsu curry sauce. If the weather is playing ball, treat yourself to an indulgent ice cream at Jelbert’s – it only serves vanilla, but make sure you get your ball topped with Cornish clotted cream and a flake! Stay at Chapel House, in the neighbouring town of Penzance, a charming boutique hotel housed in a former arts club. Where to stay in Cornwall Trevose Harbour House, St Ives Doubles from £165, check availability at booking.com, mrandmrssmith.com or expedia.co.uk The best bed and breakfast in St Ives... Breakfast is an art form at Trevose Harbour House, in the higgledy-piggledy artistic hub that is St Ives (home of the Tate Modern and the Barbara Hepworth Museum). A jaunty boutique B&B, with six nautical-themed rooms, a smattering of Ercol and harbour views, the focus is firmly on local and organic. Start with a smoothie 'shot of the day' then choose from their version of the continental or a hot dish. The continental is a smorgasbord of homemade bircher muesli, granola parfait, organic yoghurt, fresh fruit, seasonal fruit compote, homemade organic multigrain granola, freshly baked pain au chocolat, pain aux raisins and local organic bread smeared with homemade jams. Along with the full English, cooked options include a hot croissant filled with runny Cornish brie, ham and tomato. Doubles from £165, check availability at booking.com, mrandmrssmith.com or expedia.co.uk Kudhva, Tintagel Doubles from £143, check availability at booking.com or kudhva.com Drive down narrow lanes flanked by towering green hedges on Cornwall’s wild Atlantic coast to discover Kudhva, an off-grid glampsite near Trebarwith Strand. Set up by leatherworker Louise Middleton, this disused quarry has been transformed into a verdant enclave where visitors can stay in tree tents, rigged above ground, or in one of four kudhva – compact wood-and-metal cabins on stilts. In the midst of this bucolic setting is a self-catering glamping site. Expect flushing toilets, solar-powered showers, your own fire pit, a communal kitchen and even an outdoor hot tub, while the rustic surroundings are reflected in the décor – much of the furniture and structures are wooden and handmade, with jars of velvety fern fronds and wildflowers decorating most surfaces. Doubles from £143, check availability at booking.com or kudhva.com olive's top 10 best restaurants in Cornwall Flora at Trelowarren Estate, Helston Neighbourhood bistro vibes A family-run café, bistro and bakery nestled deep within the unspoilt Trelowarren Estate. The eatery is situated in the historic stable yard and is run by friendly and talented couple, Tim Spedding (who previously cooked at The Clove Club and P Franco) and his creative wife Louise Rødkjær. Lunch might include new potato and sorrel soup with soda bread, wood-fired pollock with summer herbs and aïoli, or sprouting broccoli, kale and gremolata pizza. There is always a counter full of irresistible cakes and pastries, and on Sundays Tim serves a refined but relaxed set menu lunch in the dining room. floranewyard.co.uk Crocadon Farm, Saltash Farm to fine dining Crocadon Farm has been a labour of love for Dan Cox, a Roux scholarship winner who has worked in some of the country’s best Michelin-recognised restaurants, before working tirelessly to transform this exceptional 120-acre farm into the ultra-sustainable field-to-fork mecca it is today. Surrounded by the farm that grows and nurtures most of the produce on your plate, this restaurant is assured and original while also giving back to the environment. crocadon.farm Gurnard’s Head, Saint Ives Seafood pub This vibrant, mustard yellow gastropub stands out among the stark green fields that surround it. The hearty menu is well received by locals and tourists alike, and the Sunday roast is particularly popular, best enjoyed after a bracing coastal walk. Head chef Max Wilson excels with classic fish dishes and innovative seasonal inventions, driven by the changing seasons. gurnardshead.co.uk The Rocket Store, Boscastle Seafront spot A small blackboard states the daily menu at this under the radar spot. Always filled to the brim with hungry locals, the kitchen creates innovative dishes championing local seafood but with the addition of bold spice mixtures and intriguing exotic flavour combinations, such as mackerel with nahm jim or monkfish with saffron broth. The quirky eatery is found inside an old rocket shop in the quiet fishing port of Boscastle. therocketstore.co.uk St Eia, Saint Ives Wine bar chic A welcome break from the tourist traps of well-trodden Saint Ives, this chic, intimate wine bar pours rare, low-intervention bottles alongside a short menu of bistro-inspired food. Chat to the knowledgeable team who will help you pick a glass you’ll love, or buy a bottle to go. steiawines.com The Verdant Seafood Bar, Falmouth Tiny taproom Those in the know visit Verdant Seafood Bar, tucked away on a side street in Falmouth, Cornwall’s main student town. The tiny hangout is the main taproom for Verdant Brewing Company, which makes a selection of unfiltered, vegan, hoppy craft beer. The company was founded in 2014 by three friends and the venue serves from eight taps – four classics and four ever-changing seasonal options. Get cosy at one of the few tables and order a few plates of seafood (we recommend the lobster and crayfish roll and fried seafood balls) to accompany a refreshing pint of Lightbulb beer. verdantbrewing.co Tre, Pol & Pen farm shop, Launceston Cornish produce Just over the Devon-Cornwall border, Tre, Pol & Pen is an encyclopaedic farm shop showcasing the best Cornish ingredients and products, sourced from Launceston to Land’s End. It is an ideal first stop if you are staying in self-catering accommodation while in Cornwall – stock up on fruit and vegetables from the Tamar Valley, its own Red Ruby beef, and creamy Trewithen Dairy products. There is an airy on-site café for light lunches or a caffeine break from driving. trepolandpen.co.uk Origin Roastery, Porthleven Harbourside brews Origin Coffee is one of Cornwall’s greatest foodie success stories – founded by Tom Sobey in 2004, this exceptional specialist coffee roasting company now supplies coffee shops all over the country, with its own cafés in Cornwall, London, Bristol and Edinburgh. The huge roastery is the heart of the business, a great place to enjoy brunch and a perfectly poured cup of coffee. The original Porthleven café nearby is also worth a visit if you fancy a flat white with a harbour view. origincoffee.co.uk Gorse, Newquay Buttery bakes Cornwall might be best known for its traditional savoury pasties but the Gorse team is introducing a (dare we say it) more refined French style of viennoiserie. Housed in a sparse industrial space on the outskirts of Newquay, this creative bakery presents trays of alluring buttery bakes, from Marmite and cheddar swirls to seasonal fruit topped Danish patries. Perch at the communal table, order a coffee and choose from the tempting array of breakfast treats. @gorse_cornwall Four Boys, Wadebridge Local hangout Avoid the Rick Stein fanatics and instead hop on the scenic pedestrian ferry from Padstow to Rock for lunch in peace. This hip café and restaurant overlooks the estuary, and serves a daily menu of comfort food, from sea bass crudo to its iconic smash burger, and meringue with poached rhubarb and cream for dessert. fourboyscafe.co.uk Three foodie day trips around Cornwall Trevibban Mill, Padstow Cornish wine continues to thrive and Trevibban Mill is leading the movement with its award-winning wines. Visit the winery, situated on the slopes of the Issey Brook near Padstow, and enjoy a meal at the in-house restaurant Barnaby’s, which is run by the Prawn on the Lawn team. Guided tours takes place on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, while tutored wine tastings are available Tuesday to Saturday. trevibbanmill.com Feasting with Simon Stallard at Hidden Hut, Portscatho Simon Stallard’s alfresco feasts have become a phenomenal sell-out success and have popularised the notion of beach dining in Cornwall. If you don’t manage to book a place at the table for one of his BBQ lobsters and seafood paella events, you can visit his Hidden Hut café for wholesome homemade food after a walk along the Roseland Peninsula. Simon and his wife have also opened Tatams café and The Standard Inn in the nearby town of Portscatho. hiddenhut.co.uk Coombeshead Farm, Launceston Everything you need for the perfect weekend break in Cornwall – a foodie destination (founded by chefs Tom Adams and April Bloomfield) with the added bonus of beautiful bedrooms. Dinner in the barn is a highlight of a stay here but you can also take part in bread making workshops or enjoy a Coombeshead picnic on the grounds surrounding the main house – there’s a reason you’ll find Coombeshead bread on the menu at restaurants up and down the country. coombesheadfarm.co.uk More travel inspiration... 13 day trips from London by train Brighton guide: where locals eat and drink 14 small towns across the UK every foodie should visit The UK's best pubs with rooms UK boutique hotels for food lovers 10 exciting UK city breaks for food lovers Best restaurants with rooms UK spa hotels for food lovers Best romantic UK hotels Best seaside staycations