Cafes

Bristol

A CAPPELLA
184c Wells Rd, Totterdown, BS4 2AL
Tel: 0117 971 3377, web: www.acappellas.co.uk
● Bijou little spot operating as cafe by day and cosy BYO pizzeria by night, with a community, family feel and local artworks depicting nearby scenes. Homemade desserts, tapas, all-day breakfasts, lunches and fine coffee. Traditionally prepared stonebaked pizzas arrive when the sun goes down. Very child-friendly, with toys for little ones. Free Wi-Fi; good disabled access. Alfresco dining area, booking essential at weekends. Open Tue-Thur 9am-10pm, Fri-Sat 9am-10.30pm

ARNOLFINI CAFE-BAR
16 Narrow Quay, BS1 4QA
Tel: 0117 917 2305, web: www.arnolfini.org.uk
● The Italian-inspired menu at this arts centre cafe-bar changes with the seasons to make the best of local produce, with high-quality imports adding continental elan. Polenta chips and anchovy toast are popular quick bites, while pasta, risotto and bruschetta satisfy heartier appetites, and kids get their own choices. All-Italian wine list, local beers and ciders and a short but entertaining cocktail menu. The sunny quay outside is perfect for summer dining and drinking. Open Daily from 10am, check website for closing times

NEW
ARTS HOUSE
108a Stokes Croft, BS1 3RU
Web: www.theartshouse.org
● Freshly made tortillas, panini, tapas, pastries, soups, salads and cakes at this recently opened gallery, cafe and bar, along with Fairtrade black and herbal teas and coffees, smoothies, milkshakes, wines, bottled beers and ciders. Diverse events include backgammon and chess on Mon, life drawing (with models in fancy dress) on alternate Tue, and DJs, live acts and film showings across the week. Food served Daily 8.30am-9.30pm

AVENUE CAFE
1 Queen Square Ave, BS1 4JA
Tel: 0117 983 8384
● Smart, spacious, modern cafe at the end of a side street off Queen Square. Enjoy breakfast from 7.30am (full traditional cooked variety, or the likes of poached eggs or grilled mushrooms on toast), morning coffee, lunch or an afternoon cuppa and cake. Panini (ham, cheddar & spring onion), 14 different jacket fillings (chicken, pesto & mozzarella, olive-roasted vegetables with three cheeses) and daily bites taking in hot salmon salad, and spicy olive arrabiata on pasta. Buffet lunches and business meetings, take-out service, telephone orders welcomed. Open Mon-Thur 7.30am-5pm, Fri 7.30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 10am-4pm

NEW
BACCHUS
59 Apsley Rd, Clifton, BS8 2SW
Tel: 0117 973 4892
● Lush all-day breakfasts, groovy lunches and splendid early suppers at the premises where Rucola stood. See Restaurants, World Fusion. Open Mon-Sat 9am-8pm, Sun 9am-5pm

BEESES BAR & TEA GARDENS
Wyndham Crescent, BS4 4SX
Tel: 0117 977 7412, web: www.beeses.co.uk, www.myspace.com/beeses
● Utterly beguiling riverside garden setting. Menu favourites (burgers made by Taste, a wonderful cheeseboard) are to be joined by more specials and food-themed evenings including the return of the fabulous fish suppers, and Fri being Spice Night. There’s artisan craft and care taken in everything done here. Perfect for families – the nature reserve next door (ducks, swans, herons) is one of Bristol’s best-kept secret. Open Thur 4-11pm, Fri-Sat 12noon-11pm, Sun 10am-7pm until 26 Sept. Open bank hol Mons. Available for private booking at other times Food served Thur 4-9pm, Fri 12noon-9pm, Sat 12noon-9 pm, Sun 10am-6pm (breakfast 10–11.30am)

NEW
BELLA DELI
17 Chandos Rd, BS6 5BG
Tel: 0117 973 2282
● Dinky cafe that opened last year, run by a husband-and-wife team. Breakfasts, panini, sandwiches, ciabattas, soups, lunchtime specials and cakes. Sip Italian coffee while watching Chandos Road go by. Onsite deli stocks goodies from Italy, Greece, France and beyond. Open Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 8am-3pm

BETTER FOOD COMPANY CAFE
Proving House, Sevier St, St Werburghs, BS2 9QS
Tel: 0117 935 1725, web: www.betterfood.co.uk
● Seasonal, mostly organic, locally grown brunches, salads, soups, mezze and Sunday roasts, with special diets such as wheat-free and vegan catered for. Wood from Bristol Wood Recycling Project, cutlery from local shops and low-energy light fittings, with the cafe’s remit to reduce, reuse, recycle and consider carbon emissions. Food also available to take away. Open Mon-Fri 9am-7pm, Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 10am-4pm Food served Till about an hour before closing (or till sold out). Brunch: Mon-Fri 9am-12noon, Sat 9am-3pm, Sun 10am-3pm

BIG BANANA JUICE BAR
Units 21-22, Glass Arcade, St Nicholas Market, BS1 1JQ
Tel: 0117 927 3274
● Offers a dozen juices plus smoothies and organic ice-cream shakes, with Brazilian superfood acai providing an alternative to caffeine-based quaffing. Try the Iron Booster (beetroot, watercress, apple, carrot) or Very Veg (carrot, cucumber, celery, parsley), which work wonders for your health and your taste-buds. Wheatgrass, apple and lime combine to form a Green Bang. Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm

BLUE JUICE
39 Cotham Hill, BS6 6JY
Tel: 0117 973 4800
● Innovative and hugely successful. Vast range of juices and smoothies includes their popular acai (full of vitamins and minerals), carrot, apple & ginger cocktail, and enduring favourite the five-a-day special juice (fruit and vegetable varieties). Wrap and juice deal (£5) and coffee deal (£1) up for grabs as we went to press. Almost all mains are vegetarian – try lentil & vegetable shepherd’s pie or cheese, leek & potato pie, plus salads for sunnier eating. Beautiful heated deck with canopy. All food available to take away. Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm(ish)

BORDEAUX QUAY BRASSERIE
V-Shed, Canons Way, BS1 5UH
Tel: 0117 943 1200, web: www.bordeaux-quay.co.uk
● Smart, spacious brasserie with bar within the Bordeaux Quay temple to all things scrumptious and sustainable. Food is modern European, with menus changing daily and with the seasons. Staple ingredients are sourced from organic suppliers, growers, producers and farms around the West Country. Typical starters are grilled aubergine with buffalo mozzarella, pine nut & lemon dressing, and potted wild rabbit, parsley salad and grilled bread. Mains feature sundried tomato, courgette & basil tart with saute potatoes, and chicken basquaise with mash and savoy cabbage, and smoked haddock & dill risotto with poached egg. And for dessert, apple crumble with Dorset cream, or rhubarb, blood orange & mascarpone fool with shortbread. Open Mon-Fri 8am-11pm, Sat 9am-11pm, Sun 9am-4pm Food served Mon-Sat 12noon-10.30pm, Sat-Sun 9-11am, Sun 12noon-4pm

BOSTON TEA PARTY
75 Park St, BS1 5PF
Tel: 0117 929 8601, web: www.bostonteaparty.co.uk
● Praised by both The Guardian and The Times, and boasting a huge selection of juices, loose-leaf teas and Fairtrade coffee. Also offer excellent food, with seasonally changing menus: sweet potato curry, falafels, West Country burgers, lamb tagine, roast squash & feta salad. Reliably innovative sarnie and panini range, barbecues planned for summer, and breakfasts that include herby portobello mushrooms. There’s seating on two floors and a terraced garden. The kind people here aren’t averse to a little charity work. Open Mon-Sat 7am-8pm, Sun 9am-8pm

BRISTOL BREAK ‘N’ TAKE
30-32 Upper Mauldin St, BS2 8DJ
Tel: 0117 930 0776
● Cut-above cafe and sandwich shop opposite Bristol Children’s Hospital, where award-winning chefs conjure up soups, pies, panini, baguettes, jackets, homemade cakes and tarts to be enjoyed on site or taken away. Mash, mushy peas and gravy accompany the Pieminister pies, and there are deli and salad counters. Hot and cold drinks, plus alcohol licence. Continuous news coverage, Wi-Fi, children welcome. Open Mon-Fri 7.30am-7pm, Sat 9.30am-5.30pm (Sun opening possible)

BRISTOL GUILD CAFE
68-70 Park St, BS1 5JY
Tel: 0117 929 1874, web: www.bristolguild.co.uk
● Long-established and much-loved, serving soups, salads, quiches (the leek & mushroom is a beauty), pastries, cakes, cookies, scones, flapjacks, tea, coffee and cold drinks. Shoppers, business types and Park Street traders enjoy a light and airy setting, with greenery inside in the terrace area and outside through the window. Open Mon-Fri 9.30am-4.30pm, Sat 9.30am-5pm

BRUNEL BUTTERY
Wapping Wharf, BS1 6DS
Tel: 0117 929 1696
● Bacon butties, sausage sarnies, cakes, cold drinks, tea, coffee, hot chocolate and more. Eat on tables outdoors or take away. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-5pm

CAFE AT THE SOUTHVILLE CENTRE
Southville Centre, Beauley Rd, Southville, BS3 1QG
Tel: 0117 923 1039
● Locally sourced ingredients go into baked potatoes, ciabattas, soups, salads, cakes and 8-10 specials, served in a light and airy setting at the Southville Centre. Roasts on the second Sunday of the month; private functions catered for outside opening hours. The chef’s CV boasts time at Bordeaux Quay and Bell’s Diner. Open Mon-Fri 8am-5.30pm, lunch on second Sun monthly

CAFE DELIGHT
189 Gloucester Rd, BS7 8BG
Tel: 0117 944 1133, web: www.cafedelight.co.uk
● English and European food served to an ever-growing clientele. More than a dozen breakfasts (served till 3.30pm), and favourite specials include the homemade lamb & mint burger, haddock with crispy crumb, assorted tapas plates and nut roast. Regular live music is well worth catching. Available for private parties of up to 40. Free Wi-Fi. Open Mon-Sat 8.30am-7pm, Sun 9am-4pm

CAFE DU JOUR
72 Whiteladies Road, BS8 2QA
Tel: 0117 973 1563, web: www.cafe-dujour.co.uk
● Swish cafe with a smart, modern look, large front windows and decked rear area. Baguettes (crispy organic bacon), croques, salads, quiches and assiettes of charcuterie, cheese or both. Try new breakfast dish of smoked Scottish salmon, spinach & gruyere cheese toasted sandwich with steamed scrambled eggs. Plus coffees, teas, juices and smoothies. Open Mon-Fri 7am-6pm, Sat-Sun 8am-5.30pm

CAFE KINO
3 Ninetree Hill, Kingsdown, BS1 3SB
Tel: 0117 924 9200, web: www.cafe-kino.com
● Art, creativity and community draw punters from far and wide to this co-operative. Food (daily breakfasts, famous burger and homemade chips, specials like creamy leek & butterbean crumble) is organic, vegan/vegetarian, Fairtrade and locally sourced. Enjoy eclectic sounds in the background, and lots of exhibiting artists. There’s synergy with the nearby Cube cinema - the cafe sells its cola alternative and speaks directly to the El Salvador co-operative from where it gets its coffee. Alcohol licence means you can enjoy a drink (including Bath Ales organic lager and cider) with your grub. Diverse calendar features Stitch and Bitch evenings, music and story gatherings and some popular Scrabble action. Open Mon-Fri 8am-9.30pm, Sat-Sun 10am-9.30pm (last food orders 8.30pm)

NEW
CAFE RETREAT
45 Whiteladies Rd, Clifton, BS8 2LS
Tel: 0117 973 2842
● Sky-blue frontage, stylish sundeck and a cheery feel. Food, prepared daily on site, takes in inventively filled sandwiches, wraps, panini and baguettes, jackets and mains like chicken in buffalo sauce with blue cheese and celery. New menu was being prepared as we went to press - expect traditional and vegetarian breakfasts, daily changing specials, mezze, nachos, ploughman’s platters, quiches and minute steak in toasted ciabatta. Cakes, cookies and biscuits, too. Open Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat-Sun 9am-5pm

CAFE ROUGE
85 Park St, BS1 5PJ
Tel: 0117 929 2571
Cabot Circus, BS1 3BD
Tel: 0117 954 4808
NEW
Unit R4, The Mall, Cribbs Causeway BS10 7TG
Tel: 0117 950 8730, web: www.caferouge.co.uk
● Friendly, authentic French cafe-bar/brasserie/restaurant serving high-quality food in convivial surroundings. See Restaurants, French. Open Mon-Fri 9am-11pm, Sat 9am-10pm, Sun 10am-10.30pm. Cribbs: Mon-Sat 9am-11pm, Sun 10am-10.30pm

CAFFE CLIFTON
The Clifton, St Paul’s Rd, Clifton, BS8 1LX
Tel: 0117 973 6882, web: www.cliftonhotels.com
● Swish spot located above the legend that is Racks. Bespoke suppliers include Clifton Coffee Co, Clifton Cake Cafe and Attic Tea. Try the jasmine tea ball green tea - an elegant, jasmine-flavoured honey-coloured infusion. Light dining includes jackets, baguettes and gourmet sandwiches (steak, honey-baked Wiltshire ham and cheese). Food served downstairs can be ordered for upstairs eating. Open Daily 8am-8pm

CAFFE EXCHANGE
Corn St, BS1 1JQ
Tel: 0117 922 4013
● Tea, coffee and snacks. Open Mon-Sat 7.30am-4.30pm

CAFFE GUSTO
54 Prince St, BS1 4QH
Tel: 0117 376 3682, web: www.caffegusto.com
● All-day breakfasts include neat variety like scrambled eggs on bagels. Impressive sandwich choices, smoothies and a fine coffee range, using a blend from Clifton Coffee Co. See Sandwich Shops for details of other branches. Open Mon-Fri 7.30am-5pm, Sat 8am-5pm, Sun 9am-5pm

CHANDOS DELI
Quakers Friars, Cabot Circus, BS1 3DX
Tel: 0117 934 9611, web: www.chandosdeli.com
● Baguettes, salads, sandwiches and cakes, savoured with a Bath Ales beer or glass of wine. Located within a light and airy shop, and selling all the usual Chandos Deli delights (except fresh fish, for which you need to get to Clifton Village). Open Mon-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 11am-5pm

COACH HOUSE CAFE
Ashton Ct, Long Ashton, BS41 9JN
Tel: 0117 953 1800
● Drop in for panini, baguettes, sandwiches, jackets and homemade soups accompanied by teas, coffee and cake in tranquil surroundings mere minutes from central Bristol. Open Mon-Fri 10am-5.30pm, Sat-Sun 9am-5.30pm

COFFEE#1
33 Princess Victoria St, Clifton, BS8 4BU
Tel: 0117 923 8021
4 Canford Lane, Westbury on Trym, BS9 3DH
Tel: 0117 959 1749
157 Gloucester Rd, BS7 8BA
Tel: 0117 942 9909, web: www.coffee1.co.uk
● Smoothies, excellent panini (chicken, mozzarella, oven-roasted tomatoes & spinach, and goat’s cheese & sundried tomato), focaccia and cakes. Clifton: Early weekday opening, inviting leather seating and independent art at this cafe that’s popular with all ages. Westbury: Features tables and seating out front. Gloucester Rd: Chilled spot with friendly staff - a popular hangout with a cross-section of locals. Big French windows, opened come summer, let the light in. Four tables out front and a garden out back. Open Clifton: Mon-Fri 7.30am-6pm, Sat 8am-7pm, Sun 9am-6pm. Westbury: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm. Gloucester Rd: Mon-Sat 8am-6pm, Sun 9am-6pm

CREATE CAFE
CREATE Centre, Smeaton Rd, Cumberland Basin, BS1 6XN
Tel: 0117 903 1201
● Creative menu at remarkably low prices: bread and soup (butternut and crispy bacon) for just £2.50, free-range egg and toast for £1.50, full English £3, muesli or porridge £1.45., hot lunches from £2.15. Lunch specials change weekly but value is always on the menu, with Somerset beef hotpot, Spanish chicken chorizo, and slow-roasted lamb with garlic, rosemary, redcurrants and red wine at £4.50. Vegetarian options include tasty goat’s cheese & red onion tart with sunblush tomatoes and toasted pine nuts, and homemade falafel with tomato & apricot sauce. Freshly made sandwiches, jacket potatoes, quiche, fresh fruit, scrumptious puddings and a superfood salad. The ace people here actively source Fairtrade, locally produced and organic produce, and everything can be traced to source. CREATE Centre houses an art gallery, with regular exhibitions and demonstration ecohome. Fab riverside views, too. Open Mon-Fri: breakfast 8.30–11am, lunch 12noon–2pm

NEW
DELIGHT
19-20 Perry Rd, BS1 5BJ
Tel: 0117 329 0889, web: www.cafedelight.co.uk
● Opened in July 2009 by the people behind the long-established Cafe Delight on Gloucester Road. Hot homemade specials, soups, sandwiches, salads, baguettes and homemade cakes and biscuits to go with 16 loose-leaf teas. Carnivores and veggies admirably catered for in a chilled environment. Free Wi-Fi. Open Mon-Sat 7am-5pm

NEW
THE DINER
Paintworks, Bath Rd, BS4 3EH
Tel: 07786 982748, web: www.paintworksbristol.co.uk
● Housed in a design classic – an Airstream trailer – the Diner has been serving up a friendly splash of Stateside dash since pitching up at Paintworks in September 2009. ‘Good to go’ ‘Vanwiches’ include pastrami with pickles and mustard, and hummus & roasted vegetables. There’s a distinctly British fishfinger sandwich, with jackets available Mon-Thur and dishes of the day including chilli and rice on Mon. Breakfasts range from distinctly healthy (fresh fruit, with optional Greek yoghurt and granola) via more indulgent (doughnut toast) to the Homeresque ultimate breakfast sandwich. Grill items include burgers, campfire steak wrap and Philly cheese steak. Have a nice day, ya’ll. Open Mon-Fri 7.30am-4pm, weekend opening scheduled (check website)

DOCKYARD CAFE-BAR
Harbourside, Great Western Dockyard, near SS Great Britain, BS1 6TY
Tel: 0117 926 0680, web: www.ssgreatbritain.org
● Cafe-bar beside Brunel’s iconic SS Great Britain. Victoria sponge, scones, rock cakes and ginger cake, made to authentic Victorian recipes. A light, airy atmosphere and a decent-sized terrace for alfresco relaxing. More substantial dining includes jacket potatoes, soups and daily changing specials: Brunel’s steak & ale pie, chicken & mushroom stroganoff, chilli, vegetarian lasagne. Open Daily: winter 9.30am-4.30pm, summer 9.30am-5.30pm

DOWNS TEA ROOM
Stoke Rd, nr water tower, Durdham Down, BS9 1EL
Tel: 0117 923 8186
● What was once a Victorian gents’ toilet is now a tearoom serving breakfasts, salads, fish & chips, chilli, baguettes, burgers and a children’s menu including chicken strips and fishfingers. Extensive hot beverage selection includes Darjeeling, Ceylon, Assam and Earl Grey teas. The parking is easy, and the kids can run around. Open Daily: winter 8.30am-5pm, summer 8.30am-6pm/8pm

FALAFEL KING HUMOUSIA
6 Cotham Hill, BS6 6LF
Tel: 07855 337805
● Eatery and takeaway from the people who’ve long been providing the Falafel King city-centre pitta pit-stop that’s a must-visit after an evening on the sauce. On two levels: downstairs is more of a restaurant-like operation with table service; upstairs has a cafe feel. Dishes include poached eggs in tomato sauce, plus hummus plates and mezze plates. Shisha corner due to arrive by the time you read this. Lovely bubbly. Also do event and festival catering. Open Daily 11am-10pm

FOLK HOUSE CAFE & BAR
40a Park St, BS1 5JG
Tel: 0117 908 5035, web: www.folkhousecafe.co.uk
● Delicious, fresh and affordable food using organic, local and seasonal ingredients. All meat, dairy and fresh produce from the Better Food Co is certified organic; other produce is mostly organic and, where it isn’t, comes from local trusted suppliers. The delicious soup is always gluten-free and vegetarian (and usually vegan). Veggie and meat tapas, burgers (including a vegan lentil version), savoury tarts, pies on the specials board, pizza slices and yummy homemade cakes. Very child friendly: organic baby food, highchair and booster seat, nappy-changing facilities in the girls’ loo. Check website for events, or check the music board to the left at the entrance. Available for private hire. Free Wi-Fi. Open Mon 9am-11pm, Tue-Thur 9am-9pm, Fri-Sat 9am-3pm (reopening 8pm-12midnight when events are on). Opening hours change according to term, holidays and events Food served Mon-Thur till 8.30pm, Fri-Sat 9am-4pm

FRIARY
9 Cotham Hill, BS6 6LD
Tel: 0117 973 3664
● Cotham Hill stalwart since 1979, offering a timeless formula of good food in casual and friendly surroundings. All dishes (curries, chillies, casseroles, vegetarian options, delicious soup) are made on the premises, but the biggest hits are the classic breakfasts. Eclectic music mix draws a mixed but devoted clientele. Most dishes will set you back around a fiver, and children are welcome, with smaller portions available. Open Mon-Sat 9am-4.30pm, Sun 10am-3pm

NEW
FRISKA
The Paragon, Victoria St, BS1 6BX
Tel: 0117 929 8971, web: www.friskafood.com
● Opened in autumn 2009 to serve freshly prepared, healthy and interesting fast food. Breakfasts, salads, wraps, soups and hot main courses are served in lunch boxes to go or to eat in brightly functional premises. Outside seating in the pipeline. Open Mon-Fri 7am-2.30pm

GREEN BEAN
209 North St, Bedminster, BS3 1JH
Tel: 0117 939 4724, web: www.the-green-bean.co.uk
● Combination of coffee shop and gift shop that comes with a big side-serving of conscientiousness and impeccable environmental credentials - bamboo flooring, eco paints, energy-efficient lights, recycling. Food – cakes (vegan, gluten free), panini, ciabattas, rolls, quiche, pies, summer salads – is largely organic, and there’s Fairtrade, too. Coffee is Rainforest Alliance approved, and incorporates Sumatran, Ethiopian, Guatemalan and Papua New Guinean beans blended by fifth generation coffee proprietor Martin Carwardine. Natty gift range sees recycled materials put to innovative use, and the walls are set to showcase some similarly innovative artwork. Open Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm, Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 11.30am-4pm

HATTERS
97 Gloucester Rd, BS7 8AT
Tel: 0117 330 5740/07772 787419, web: www.hattersbristol.co.uk
● Categorisation-defying cafe-bar/happening space run by the irrepressible Charity White. Parties here have included burlesque and anti-Christmas themes. Food takes in ciabattas, homemade cheeseburgers, fishfinger sandwiches and French crepes, with sharing mezze for sociable evenings. Cakes include renowned chocolate brownies, cheesecakes and tartlets as well as the utterly random: “I made a biscuit village,” says Charity. “It was elaborate.” Exemplarily kid-friendly. Open/Food Mon-Wed 10am-5.30pm, Thur-Sat 10am-12midnight

HAVANA COFFEE
37a Cotham Hill, BS6 6JY
Tel: 0117 973 3020, web: www.havanacoffee.co.uk
● A relaxed atmosphere, extensive light bites selection, and excellent Fairtrade coffees, traditional and herbal teas and juices. Menu incorporates global favourites (chicken enchiladas, salmon and sardine dishes, chilli, panini, jackets, burgers, skins), 15 varieties of English breakfast (seven vegetarian) and 30 kinds of tea. Food is organic wherever possible, decor is South American-influenced, and jazzy sounds lend a mellow, light mood. Open Daily 8am-6pm

HERMANOS
55 Queens Rd, Clifton, BS8 1QQ
Tel: 0117 929 4323
● The food ante has been significantly upped at this family-run, contemporary Mediterranean cafe-bar. Dining has been separated into soup (winter root & apple), bowl (balsamic free-range local beef, red peppers and butternut squash, with garlic potato mash), tart (broccoli, stilton & Sandridge Farmhouse bacon), platter, ploughman’s, baguette and cake elements, using bread from Hobbs House. Long renowned for its later-on cocktail-bar feel, this is a foodie venue worth watching. Open Mon-Sat 11am-2am, Sun 3-11pm. Food Mon-Sat 11am-3pm (evening food planned)

NEW
JAMIE’S ITALIAN
89 Park St, BS1 5PW
Web: www.jamieoliver.com/italian
● Eating Out West might be jumping the gun a little, but we went to press with news of a planning application to open a Jamie Oliver foodfest in part of the building currently being occupied by Blackwell’s bookshop. Proposals include a three-floor restaurant with antipasti counter, fresh pasta machine and ‘bread station’, and a ground-floor deli area selling Italian food, Jamie’s cookbooks and kitchen products. If all goes to plan, opening is planned for early 2011.

JOHN’S YORK CAFE
46 Bond St, BS1 3LZ
Tel: 0117 929 0101, web: www.theyorkcafe.co.uk
● All-day breakfasts and traditional English lunch specials like liver & bacon, cottage pie, and chops. All are welcome here: weekend shoppers come for breakfast, students come from the nearby halls, and bus-station arrivals seek sustenance after their journey. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat 7am-4pm, Sun 8am-4pm

KUVUKA
113 Stokes Croft, BS1 3RW
Tel: 0117 924 7180, web: www.kuvuka.com
● An African feel throughout, with paintings and statuettes dotted about, and Fela Kuti and Ladysmith Black Mambazo on the stereo. Food takes in panini, salads, homemade cakes, snacks, and teas and coffees, including the London Fog (steamed milk, Earl Grey, a shot of vanilla). The operation donates a percentage of its profits to African charities, including For-Ethiopia and Suubi Trust. Wi-Fi, and basement available for functions. Open Mon-Fri 8am-6.30pm, Sat 10am-6.30pm, Sun 12noon-4pm

LA CASBAH
96 St Marks Rd, Easton, BS5 6JD
Tel: 0117 939 8804
● BYO community cafe with a north African feel: benches, chairs and tables are the genuine article, complementing the authentic pottery and all kinds of Moroccan music rocking this casbah. Specials change every couple of weeks. Inventive menu includes Moroccan tagines (lamb with sweet prunes, cinnamon and mixed herbs), couscous dishes and flavours from elsewhere (swordfish in Mediterranean sauce), with veggies enjoying admirable choices. It’s all excellent, with even their bountiful seafood feast giving you change from a tenner, and change from a quid when you order a mint tea. Sweets and homemade cakes, too. Gallery/shop area available for private parties. Open Mon-Thur 6-11pm, Fri-Sat 6-11.30pm

LA RUCA
89 Gloucester Rd, BS7 8AS
Tel: 0117 944 6810
● A wonderful atmosphere at this much-loved gem – a cafe, shop and all-round community space that’s become central to the daily operation of the Gloucester Road. Vegetarians and vegans are admirably catered for with tortillas, chimichangas, splendid bean enchiladas and flavour-packed falafels. Carnivores get their choices, too, with Patricia’s speciality Chilean corn pie, pastel de choclo. There’s an (almost) resident poet, and groups hire the place for poetry, environmentalism and meditation. Open Mon 9am-8pm, Tue-Sat 9am-5.30pm

LOCKSIDE
1 Brunel Lock Rd, Cumberland Basin, BS1 6XS
Tel: 0117 925 5800, web: www.lockside.net
● An Edward Hopper diner in the shadow of the CREATE Centre, with decking terrace and stunning waterside views, serving breakfast, lunch, and Fri-Sat dinner. Quality ingredients, fresh produce and excellent value characterise the cuisine. See Restaurants, European & Mediterranean. Open Mon-Thur 7am-4pm, Fri 7am-11pm, Sat 8am-11pm, Sun 9am-4pm

MELANIE’S KITCHEN
2 Downend Rd, Downend, BS16 5UJ
Tel: 0117 957 2662, web: www.melanieskitchen.co.uk
● Ace cafe within an ace deli. Peter and the eponymous Melanie spent several years producing fabulous cakes and savoury items to sell at farmers’ markets. Drop in for soup, platters, hummus dips, ploughman’s and toasted sandwiches, with full English breakfasts served Sat. Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm (early closing Tue 2pm)

MEME CHOCOLAT
19 The Mall, Clifton, BS8 4JG
Tel: 0117 974 7000, web: www.memechocolat.co.uk
● Stylish homage to all things choccy. New breakfast menu (full English till 11.30am), panini, baguettes, sandwiches, soups, cakes and, well, chocolates. Neutral colours and a pine floor create a chilled ambience. Friendly and efficient, and an alcohol licence means you can savour wine with your choccy, or even sit down with a taster plate of truffles and bottle of champagne. The Marshfield Organic ice cream is lovely, as is Amanda’s lemon cheesecake. Portishead site, too (see Specialist Food Suppliers, Out of Town). Wi-Fi; possibly some more film nights in the pipeline. Open Mon-Sat 8.30am-6.30pm, Sun 9am-6.30pm

MRS BROWN’S CAFE
Nr Hill Rd, in Victoria Park, Bedminster, BS3
Tel: 07786 275011
● Children futilely chasing pigeons, couples strolling romantically, joggers fancying a breather and everyone else appreciating this south Bristol park’s charm refuel here. Bacon & egg baps, ground coffee, kids’ juices and Fairtrade sourcing. Open Daily 10am-5pm till Oct

MUD DOCK
40 The Grove, BS1 4RB
Tel: 0117 934 9734, web: www.mud-dock.com
● Inspired, industrial decor and gastro treats at this cool, hugely popular Bristol institution in a former dockside warehouse, with great views across the water from the sundeck. Superb breakfasts and popular weekend brunches. Great food with Spanish influences, including tapas. Special menu for under-12s. See Restaurants, European & Mediterranean. Open Mon 10am-3pm, Tue-Thur 10am-10pm, Fri 10am-11pm, Sat 9am-11pm, Sun 10am-5pm

NUMBER 10
10 Zetland Rd, Redland, BS6 7AD
Tel: 0117 924 1301, web: www.no10restaurant.co.uk
● The globe-spanning menu at this chilled spot changes every month, with leisurely dining across breakfasts, lunches, starters, mains and puddings. Decor is all willowy houseplants and wicker furniture, with MOR tunes piped at conversation-friendly levels. Expect mains like king prawn risotto, goulash, sweet glazed chicken breast, sirloin steak, Persian lamb curry and Persian salmon stew. Fesenjan – a traditional Iranian dish, made here with lamb – is due to arrive, and veggies get admirable choice. Desserts include chocolate pastry layered with chocolate, toffee, honeycomb pieces, chocolate mousse and butterscotch with a crunchy almond and vanilla fudge centre. Alfresco seating. Open Summer: daily 8.30am-10.30pm. Winter: Tue-Sun 11.30am-10.30pm

OCEAN TAPAS BAR
185 Whiteladies Rd, Clifton, BS8 2RY
Tel: 0117 946 9825, web: www.ocean-cafe.co.uk
● The slight name change – from Ocean Cafe to Ocean Tapas Bar – better illustrates the very sociable dining to be enjoyed here. Dinky churros (free with your takeaway Illy coffee), grilled sardines, saffron rice with strips of chicken, fried sweet peppers, Catalan-style roast courgettes, aubergines, red onions and tomatoes with thyme and cumin seeds, or a whole suckling pig – cooked for four hours - for a 15-strong party. Tapas served around the clock, with daily specials and a lunch menu of the day. The sea’s bounty is well represented, including squid, clams, sardines and oysters. Fully licensed. Open Tue-Sat 10am-11pm, Sun 12noon-6pm

ONE STOP THALI
64-66 St Marks Rd, Easton, BS5 6JH
Tel: 0117 951 4979, web: www.onestopthali.co.uk
NEW
1 Regent St, Clifton, BS8 4HW
Tel: 0117 974 3793, web: www.onestopthali.co.uk
● Community cafes, with the Clifton operation opening in October 2009. Breakfast menu includes Indian omelettes and coconut pancakes. Indian light lunch menu includes Goan fish curry and masala dosa stuffed pancakes. Fairtrade coffees, freshly made chai, homemade cakes and set meals of curry, dhal and rice at great-value prices. A strong commitment to seasonality, sustainability and local produce. Live music Sun, cosy sofas and Wi-Fi, tiffin service available. See Restaurants, Indian & Nepalese. Open Clifton: Tue-Sun 10am-6pm, daily 6pm-close. Easton: Tue-Sun 10am-11.30pm, Mon 6-11.30pm

PAPA COSTA DELI
67 Queens Rd, Clifton, BS8 1QL
Tel: 0117 929 1600
● Enduringly popular cafe with onsite deli. Serves delicious daytime treats including panini, soup and savoury snacks with a European emphasis, taking on the flavours of Italy, Greece, Spain, France and Cyprus. Available to eat in or take away, and an impressive catering service, too. If you’re after Greek beers, you can get them here. Open Mon-Fri 7am-6pm, Sat 8am-6pm, Sun 10am-4pm

PAPADELI
84 Alma Rd, Clifton, BS8 2DJ
Tel: 0117 973 6569, web: www.papadeli.co.uk
● Stylish, friendly deli and cafe where they’re passionate about the food they sell and its locally sourced, Fairtrade and organic credentials. Inspirations come from the Mediterranean, and signature dish the Papadeli Plate is a feast of charcuterie and artisan cheeses. They even squeeze a couple of seats onto the pavement for alfresco refuellers. ‘They’re a bit wobbly!’ says Daisy, but that just adds to their charm. Open Cafe: Mon-Sat 9.30am-4.30pm. Deli: Mon-Sat 9.30am-5.30pm

PEAR CAFE
The Coach House, 2 Upper York St, BS2 8QN
Tel: 0117 942 8392, web: www.thepearcafe.com
● Ultra-dinky spot that’s made a big name for itself for its delicious, homemade food. UKTV Food Hero nominations in 2007 and 2008 confirm you don’t have to be big to get noticed. Breakfast and lunch, plus drinks and snacks all day, with an emphasis on fantastic sandwiches and salads (made to order, with Herberts Bakery bread), soup and cakes (must-try butterscotch and plain chocolate brownies). Wide variety of Fairtrade products including hot and cold drinks. Catering arm, too. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3.30pm Food Breakfast till 10am, lunch 11.45am-2.45pm, snacks all day

PIEMINISTER
24 Stokes Croft, BS1 3PR
Tel: 0117 942 9500
Glass Arcade, St Nicholas Market, Corn St, BS1 1JQ
Tel: 0117 302 0070, web: www.pieminister.co.uk
● Keep calm and eat more pies. That’s the message coming loud and clear from Pieminister HQ. The shamrock pie was set to fuel the fun at Manchester’s Irish Festival as went go to press, with Pieminister offerings appearing in pubs in Fulham and Brighton as well as in the company’s new Southbank London operation as the South East gets a taste of the lushness that’s been delighting us for six years. Available in numerous local outlets, as well as Stokes Croft HQ and a bijou offshoot at St Nicholas Market. Eat on site or take away. Sides include sausage rolls, organic brownies and cakes. Open Stokes Croft: Mon-Sat 11am-7pm, Sun 10am-5pm. St Nick’s Market: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm

PRIMROSE CAFE & BISTRO
Boyces Ave, Clifton Village, BS8 4AA
Tel: 0117 946 6577
● One of the great Bristolian breakfast institutions, this excellent spot functions as a sunny alfresco cafe during the day and intimate bistro at night. Daytime fare sees an emphasis on local fresh produce, with salads, bagels, ciabattas and those breakfasts. Evening fodder is distinctly above the cafe average, with a modern European flavour: red wine, radicchio & thyme risotto with parmesan crisp, ricotta & herb souffle with garlic cream and grilled courgettes, Cornish pollack, white beans & chorizo picante with parsley oil. Much of their produce and meat is organically grown or reared. Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 9.30am-3pm, Tue-Sat 7pm-1am

PURE PASTA, SOUP & SANDWICH
35-39 Glass Arcade, St Nicholas Market, BS1 1LJ
Tel: 07899 862403
● Food with forza served up at this little slice of Italy in bustling St Nicks Market: tortellini with pesto, cream & white wine, lasagne (plus veggie option), pizza, soup, sandwiches, summer salads, tiramisu, etc. The pasta’s ready at noon, with coffee and cake to get you through the morning. Open Mon-Sat 9.30am-5pm

RAINBOW CAFE
10 Waterloo St, Clifton, BS8 4BT
Tel: 0117 973 8937
● Radio 4 is usually on in the background at this enduringly charming spot combining cafe, secondhand bookshop and changing art exhibition. Tasty smoked salmon & cream cheese bagels, homemade smoked mackerel pate, bacon & leek quiche. All dishes, homecooked daily, are vegetarian, with wheat-free, dairy-free and vegan diets catered for. Try the parsnip, apple & ginger soup, then treat yourself to homemade stem ginger ice-cream. Vegan and vegetarian wine also served. Open Mon-Sat 10am-5.30pm, Sun 10am-5pm

RED
9 Clare St, BS1 1XH
Tel: 0117 925 5461
● Sophisticated, chic, continental-style cafe/takeaway run by a bro-and-sis team serving burgers, omelettes, pasta, pork chops, etc. Open Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm

RIVERSIDE GARDEN CENTRE
Clift House Rd, Southville, BS3 1RX
Tel: 0117 966 7535, web: www.riversidegardencentre.com
● Delightfully cheery spot (and laidback suntrap) with a completely vegetarian menu that’s organic and locally sourced where possible and all made on the premises. Daily changing soups (celeriac & pear, broccoli & watercress, roasted pepper & tomato, poached eggs, jacket spuds, salads, daily specials (organic vegetable crumble, cheese, leek & potato pie), tapas and Fairtrade speciality coffees. Children’s play area, and windows look out over the garden centre. Dine in comfort knowing they’ve been awarded five stars for hygiene by Bristol council. Open Winter: Mon-Sat 9.30am-4.30pm, Sun 11am-4pm. Summer: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 11am-4.30pm Food Brunch till 11.30am, lunch from 12noon

ROYCE ROLLS WHOLEFOOD CAFE
Corn Exchange, St Nicholas Market, BS1 1JQ
Tel: 07967 211870
● Venerable veggie institution that’s been going for more than 30 years, making it possibly the longest-established vegetarian cafe outside London. Specific dietary requirements (gluten-free, vegan) catered for. Loads of rolls, “millions of flapjacks”, pasties, savouries, jacket potatoes, soup, samosas. Astonishing herbal tea array, alongside their own blend of coffee and tea. Open Mon-Sat 9.30am-4.30pm

NEW
RUBICON CAFE & CHOCOLATIER
26 Chandos Rd, BS6 6PF
Tel: 0117 973 2372
● Opened in December 2009, bringing breakfasts, homemade lunches, soups, panini, jackets, proper side salads, ciabattas and handmade chocolates to Chandos Road. Smart and friendly, with warm pink paintwork and fresh decor. Our man said his cup of cappuccino was ‘so large that it took two hands to lift’. A diamond well worth tracking down. Open Tue-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 9am-4pm

ST STEPHEN’S CAFE
Off St Stephen’s St, BS1
Tel: 0117 929 4984
● ‘Definitely a place to remember for the summer,’ observed Venue’s reviewer. ‘Brisk efficiency and no lack of friendliness,’ he noted as he tucked into North African-style eggs poached in spicy tomato sauce that were ‘delicious and filling’. His companion had ‘an enviable plate of mezze – with both dishes just over a fiver. Bagels, soups, jackets and salads, too. Open Mon-Fri 9.30am-3pm, Sat opening in pipeline, open Sun in conjunction with services

ST WERBURGHS CITY FARM CAFE
St Werburghs City Farm, Watercress Rd, St Werburghs, BS2 9YJ
Tel: 0117 908 0798/07813 954933
● Presided over by the wonderful Leona Williamson and bagger of a Best Ethical Contribution award from the Observer Food Monthly. Seasonally changing menu with an emphasis on organic, Fairtrade, local and cyclical ingredients, with vegan, vegetarian and carnivorous offerings: City Farm-reared pork sausages with three root mash and savoy cabbage, homity pie, fish pie, free-range beefburgers, mixed bean and nut burgers, homemade cakes plus impressive tea choices. Hugely child friendly, with regular cookery schools and ace garden on site (the long-anticipated living roof should arrive here Sept 2010). Happenings have included child-naming ceremonies and charity concerts. Food Winter: daily 10am-4pm. Summer: 10am-5pm. Breakfast 10am-12noon, lunch from 12noon

SAVANA COFFEE
273 North St, Bedminster, BS3 1JN
Tel: 0117 966 0088
● Dishes are of the Spanish, Mexican and Greek variety, plus panini, pasta and pizzas. Fifteen kinds of breakfast served till 5pm, plus omelettes, jackets and salads. A focal point of the local community, with plentiful outside seating. A children’s menu is currently being confirmed. Open Daily 9am-6pm

NEW
SOUK KITCHEN
277 North St, Southville, BS3 1JP
Tel: 0117 966 6880, web: www.soukkitchen.co.uk
● Until recently Cafe Ceiturica, where Ella and husband Darren have taken over the reins from Ella’s dad Ghullam to bring the best of the Middle East to North Street. Official launch won’t be until after we go to press, but a sneak peek at the breakfast menu (daily 9am-5pm) revealed everything from Berber pancakes and shashouka (poached eggs) to British and continental breakfasts. Lunch and dinner, including salads, tagines, skewers, burgers, fishcakes, hot and cold mezze plus specials. See Restaurants, World, Pacific & Fusion. Open Daily 9am-10.30pm

NEW
SOURCE
1-3 Exchange Ave, St Nicholas Market, BS1 1JP
Tel: 0117 927 2998, web: www.source-food.co.uk
● Cafe and shop formerly known as Taste, rebranded as Source in late 2009. The new name captures this place’s essence, with a direct link from food’s source – be it field or sea – to the customer ensuring maximum freshness. Relaxing rustic setting (English oak, leather, steel) in which to enjoy breakfast (12 kinds), soup of the day, tea and coffee and freshly made snacks (free-range pork pies and sausage rolls). Onsite shop, too. Open Mon-Sat 8am-4.30pm

SPICE ROUTE
61 Gloucester Rd, BS7 8AD
Tel: 0117 904 0040
● Bright, friendly cafe serving homemade quiches and soups, easy-on-the-wallet fresh panini and baguettes, baklava, flapjacks, croissants, cakes and mighty fine coffee. Fresh fruit smoothies and exotic juices are mixed before your very eyes. Gorgeous garden space out back; takeaway, too. Open Mon-Fri from 8am, Sat from 9am

SPIKE ISLAND CAFE
133 Cumberland Rd, BS1 6UX
Tel: 0117 934 9077
● Neat cafe/canteen in a centre of contemporary art and design. Coffee is Rainforest Alliance, grub is wholesome and homemade and comes at prices affordable to even the most struggling of artists. Sandwiches, soups, jackets, burgers, pies and chilli, plus bottled ales, lagers and wines. The aesthetic flourishes work well: colourful handpainted chairs bring a nursery-like cheerfulness. Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat-Sun 11am-4pm. Private functions can be staged eves

TAKE FIVE CAFE
72 Stokes Croft, BS1 3QY
Tel: 0117 907 7502
● The emphasis is on staging evening private parties of up to 100 and outside catering at this intimate dining spot. Daytime food details unconfirmed at time of going to press. Wi-Fi. Open Daily 11am-4pm

TART CAFE & FOOD STORE
16 The Promenade, Gloucester Rd, BS7 8AE
Tel: 0117 924 7628, web: www.lovelytart.com
● Three components - cafe, shop and private dining/function room to this place, which opened to immediate success in autumn 2008. Everything except the croissants is made fresh on the premises, with at least two different savoury tarts always on and much of the daytime menu available to take away. Breakfasts, charcuterie, mezze, sandwiches, salads and afternoon tea, and an evening supper club in the pipeline. The private room can be hired for swish shindigs or business meetings with a touch of class. Open Tue-Sat 8.30am-5.30pm, Sun 10am-5.30pm (later opening planned for summer)

TIFFINS
151 St Michael’s Hill, BS2 8DB
Tel: 0117 973 4834, web: www.tiffinsbristol.com
● Wonderful husband-and-wife team Nick and Jay Jethwa cook with no frills and fuss, just excellent ingredients. Their Gujarati cuisine uses much less oil, and all dishes, freshly prepared each day, are cooked in sunflower oil only, using more nutritional spices than most Indian food. Food (seven regularly changing vegetarian and two permanent meat dishes; pizzas, too) is cooked and displayed cold in front of you, so it’s ready to be taken home and frozen, or heated at home that evening, or eaten here with a beer, wine or soft drink – all at prices belying its quality. Walls covered with stunning photography (check the Kerala pics), seriously funky graffiti artwork and letters of thanks in recognition of Nick and Jay’s charity work. Outside catering and takeaways, too. Open Mon-Sat 12noon-2.30pm & 4.30-9pm

TOBACCO FACTORY CAFE-BAR
Raleigh Rd, Southville, BS3 1TF
Tel: 0117 902 0060, web: www.tobaccofactory.com
● Mediterranean touches in the good-value seasonal food, kids’ menu, sunny yard, terrace, warehouse-chic bar and lots going on at this popular arts hotspot. See Bars.

VILLAGE POTTERY
70 Princess Victoria St, Clifton, BS8 4DD
Tel: 0117 973 4343, web: www.thevillagepottery.co.uk
● Potter Jen Hamilton creates masterpieces out of clay, with cake masterpieces made by mum sold in the bijou adjoining cafe (including gluten-free). A bristling guestbook notes pleasing comments from far and wide - the carrot & pineapple has a hardcore following from North Wales, who ring ahead to check it’ll be here when they visit. Dad does the dishes. Ever-fascinating garden out back. Iced coffee for summer, and if you’re lucky there might be fresh mint for your tea and a strawberry on your cake from the aforementioned garden. Open Tue-Sat 10am-5pm

WILD WOOD
90 Colston St, BS1 5BB
Tel: 0117 929 3627, web: www.thewildwoodbristol.co.uk
● All-day, all-comers cafe, bar and evening dining destination with a comfy, laidback appeal. See Restaurants, European & Mediterranean. Open Mon-Wed 10am-11pm, Thur-Sat 10am-12midnight, Sun – not always open, check website

WINDMILL HILL CITY FARM
Philip St, Bedminster, BS3 4EA
Tel: 0117 963 3252, web: www.windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk
● New for this year: Marshfield ice-cream sundaes in knickerbockers glory and banana split varieties. At the other end of the temperature scale, the buttered toast made from organic bread with real butter remains a snip at 50p. Ethically sound dishes, all made on the premises, with organic and Fairtrade elements found across breakfasts, soups, jacket potatoes, lasagne, cottage pie, homity pie, goat’s cheese tart, tagines, stew and daily specials. Light and airy setting amid the sights, sounds and smells of a city farm. Painting exhibitions add to the wide appeal. Buffets up to 30. Open Tue-Sat 9am-5pm

ZULU
27a Gloucester Rd, Bishopston, BS7 8AA
Tel: 07733 240490
● Now at a location nearer the start of Gloucester Road (if you’re coming from town). Burgers, steaks, sarnies and more, with wilfully exotic flavours from an impressive array of over 25 meats (wild boar, ostrich, kangaroo, kudu). Later opening hours to take your dining into a Zulu evening if not a Zulu dawn. Onsite shop. Open Mon 8.30am-6pm, Tue-Sat 8.30am-10pm, Sun 8.30am-5pm

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