The Stokes Croft branch of this South West mini-chain, which started in Bristol in 1995, is our favourite.
The brand’s non-identikit decor policy is played out to perfection here, with an arty laid-back feel that’s right at home in Bristol’s most independently minded neighbourhood. Think mismatched chairs and tables, industrial lights, lots of wood panelling and walls plastered in local art and photography.
Friendly staff, a vast outdoor seating area and an impressively varied breakfast menu have secured BTP Stokes Croft an instant place in the hearts of BS6’s WiFi addicts, hipster mums (there are colouring sheets for kids) and caffeine-craving commuters.
Our pick of the pre-lunch bunch is the portobello mushrooms on sourdough toast, but there’s a choice anxiety-inducing list of other options: vast fry-ups, eggs benedict, pancakes, kedgeree, bagels, granola, smoothies, porridge… all prepared to perfection with locally sourced ingredients.
When you’re ready to move on to the next meal, there’s a crowd-pleasing selection of burgers, salads, sandwiches, cakes and booze on offer till closing.