Tuesday August 18th, and finally, we have cooler temperatures! To top it off, we have had an all-night steady rain. This makes us feel like going out, and we end up at The Town Green Garden Café. We’ve been there before but not for several months. Alex and I sat outside at about ten o’clock.

There were already three people sitting outside, two of whom we knew. The café is managed by Rachael Brown. She and her husband Timothy reopened the Restaurant in 2021. The address, for those of you who haven’t been yet, is 3A Town Green, NR18 0PN (across from the Baptist Church) and next to the Antique shop.

Indoors, there is plenty of seating area. There is a long bench area, with tables and chairs in front. In the back corner to the left of the door to the back exit, there is an inviting group of cushioned armchairs, perfect for four or five to visit. This is next to the open door, and today, there is a lovely cool breeze filtering through. And outdoors at the back, there is seating for about twenty. There is lots of greenery and large umbrellas for shade. Dogs are welcome. On the path in front of the café, there is more seating for at least six, maybe more. What sets this space apart from other outdoor seating areas is the cushions! And on wooden chairs, this makes a difference.

Today, Alex ordered a bacon Panini and a Latte. I enjoyed an iced latte and shared Alex’s bacon sandwich. Alex also shared some bits of bacon with the friendly, well-behaved dog that was sitting under our neighbouring table. The Café had several items in the display case: quiche, brownies, cakes, scones. The gentleman sitting next to us raved about the cheese scones, one of his favourites. Their menu also included several choices for breakfast and sandwiches, hot or cold.

They serve breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Lunch service starts at 12:15. There is a cutoff time for cooked food at two o’clock. But still, lots of choices for ready-prepared treats.

One thing that sets this café apart is that it doesn't take payment until after you’ve eaten, unlike some others that take payment upon ordering. They also take reservations and cater for group events. They are wheelchair-accessible and have highchairs available. They have had fifty-six reviews, and all of those were rated excellent for service, food, value, and atmosphere. I cannot argue with that. We enjoyed friendly, quick service, and the atmosphere was welcoming.

It seems like this is a popular place to meet up, especially for people who are alone. This is one of the roomier cafes in town. Like the program ‘Cheers’, you want to go where everyone knows your name.

There are parking spaces out front, not many, but a short walk around the corner you may find more parking. Failing that, there is the car park down the street behind Feathers pub. Now, if you are fortunate and fit, the café is a short walk from the bus stop in front of the Co-op.