The Tea Bar

London Street, Basingstoke RG21 7NT

01256 353332

SINCE setting up in the heart of the Top of The Town two years ago, this welcoming cafe has gone from strength to strength.

In addition to supplying food and beverages during the day, it has also become a real hotspot in the evening, offering a full line-up of events including performances from local musicians, plus talent from farther afield. It is also a popular venue for birthday parties and private celebrations, and a filming location for local filmmakers.

In a rare moment when we had time to spend together, I popped into the venue with my other half. We were in search of a simple yet satisfying lunch, and that’s exactly what we were provided with.

We arrived just before 12pm, and there were a few people inside enjoying the comfort of the sofas. My chronic back pain means that sort of seating is a no-go, so instead, we chose a sturdy wooden table towards the front of the venue. It was near a bookcase full of teapots which I could admire while we waited for our food.

Our table number was on a little wooden Santa, which was a lovely festive touch, and a helpful young man presented us with menus.

Basingstoke Gazette:

Being simple folk, we passed on the extensive tea menu – any flavour you could imagine is included – and opted for a straightforward brew for two for £3.90. It came in a charming cottage teapot, accompanied by china teacups and saucers. It’s always good to have such a hearty portion of tea to pour, especially when the weather’s chilly.

The cafe’s lunch menu includes different homemade soups each day, baked potatoes, sandwiches, sharing platters and so on. My husband chose a chicken and bacon mayonnaise baguette, priced £4.70, whilst I opted for a brie, bacon and red onion Panini, priced £4.20.

It took a little while for our food to arrive, but I always take that as a sign that it’s being prepared properly for you. We were happy to chat whilst we drank our tea, enjoying the ambiance and watching the constant stream of people bustling along London Street.

Our meals arrived together and we tucked in. Each was accompanied by tortilla chips and a little bit of salad. The chicken in my husband’s lunch was perfectly chunky, with just the right amount of mayonnaise around the meat.

My Panini, which was toasted just the right amount, was incredibly filling. The onions were cooked perfectly, meaning I didn’t have to worry about my breath for the rest of the day!

Unfortunately, we did not have enough room for any cake, but we’ll save that for another day.

In addition to really enjoying our visit, we were glad to have supported a local Basingstoke business, one which is clearly thriving whilst making an important contribution to the Top of The Town community.

The featured venue had no knowledge of The Gazette’s visit.