It’s a chain, Jim, but not as we know it… the Boston Tea Party cafés are reassuringly familiar to many a Bristolian, with shops in Clifton, Stokes Croft and the centre of town. Their franchise spreads to the fringes of the south west too, but, thankfully, we won’t find them defacing any UNESCO sights with their signage any time soon.
The BTPs are all about good food and fine coffee that’s well sourced and reasonably priced. Their newest home on Cheltenham Road boasts an impressive patio area set back from the road that fills up as soon as the sun comes out, particularly popular with canine companions who might snuffle out bits of organic sausage or Applewood bacon dropped by careless omnivores. During the week tiny babies and tumbling toddlers take over and make the most of the buggy-friendly space (and the acoustics); it’s also a student favourite and does have the feel of an upmarket union at times. Nevertheless, the food is good: as much as possible is made on site and there’s a delicious sounding menu from breakfast through to afternoon tea. My Scotch pancakes and bacon hit the spot – not too sweet, and just the right size – and there’s a host of eggy concoctions that kept the Poacher very happy indeed. Veggies and vegans are well served here, and there are real ales and ciders should you find yourself in need of some help the day after the night before.
Price: From £2.25 (toasted bagel) to £6.75 (West Country breakfast).
The Breakfast Serials 