boston tea party, stratford-upon-avon.

First established in Bristol and the South West of England, Boston Tea Party is a quirky establishment that prides itself on brunches, homemade cakes, fresh juices and an extensive tea and coffee offerings. Often found in restored buildings, BTP are a chain with an independent feel. 

There's a map of Stratford upon Avon, higgledy-piggledy upholstery and the original features make up part of the restaurant's design. Before our trip to The Cotswolds, Stratford upon Avon made an ideal middle point for our drive. A charming part of the world and a hundred times better than a service station, in my opinion.

The Stratford venue has a large counter filled with stacks of enticing cakes; think jammy dodger tray bakes, lemon drizzle and fudge brownies. Shelves of old cans hold cutlery for the tables and jars of flowers are scattered about, giving a further homemade, made-do-and-mend feel.

Between the two of us we sampled three brunch dishes, although the portions are very reasonable and one would have done just fine. Alongside I tried their freshly squeezed orange juice and latte, whilst my friend Katie ordered an Assam tea. I wasn't surprised to be served my juice in a Kilner style jar, but I love things like that.

To eat we chose Katie's favourite eggs Benedict (£6.75), avocado on eggy sourdough with smoked bacon for me (£7.25) and the chorizo hash (£7.25) with mushrooms and spinach to share. There's also a yummy sounding sweetcorn and halloumi alternative on the menu, which was the waitress's favourite.

Whoever thought up avocado on eggy bread is a genius. The soft and squidgy bread was a delicious base for the fanned out, just-ripe avocado whilst the crispy bacon is always a winning combination. The eggs Benedict was well received, especially from Katie as her signature order. A great hollandaise, pleasing runny egg and good quality ham too.

The hash would have been a good side actually if it were not for further runny poached eggs to fight over. A brilliant breakfast combination with a bright yellow yolk which ran into the smoked chorizo.

As you can tell, BTP is a fantastic all rounder which would keep vegan, vegetarian and gluten free brunch lovers happy. It would be the perfect pitstop for tea and cake, as well as a starting point for brunch before exploring Shakespeare's birthplace.

Boston Tea Party
St Gregorys Church Hall, 
Henley St, 
Stratford-upon-Avon 
CV37 6QW

Driving? We parked at Windsor Street car park (CV37 6NL) which is £3 for 3 hours around the corner.

We dined as guests of Boston Tea Party. All words and opinions my own.