YOU have to be something special to stand out from the crowd in Stockton Heath these days.

The competition for the eating out pound is high and the choice is staggering.

But one of the standout smaller players in the market is quickly getting a reputation as a cosy, charming place to have breakfast, lunch or dinner.

We went to Bus Stop, handily positioned by the bus stop on London Road opposite St Thomas’ Church, for a quiet, leisurely lunch.

For people who have not been for a while, the favourite sharing plates remain on the menu.

But new owners Paul and Lynda Johnson have added plenty more to tempt the taste buds, from burgers and salads to a pizza and pasta inspired Italian menu.

Plus an array of homemade cakes which can be enjoyed as an afternoon tea.

We started with a selected of deep fried cheese.

Beautifully presented, the brie, Camembert and Stilton were rich and nicely offset by a fruity chutney.

I followed this with a tasty piece of buttermilk chicken with outstanding, chunky chips.

Warrington Guardian:

While my wife went for the excellent halloumi burger, again served with chips.

The portion sizes aren’t for the faint-hearted so we shared a piece of the Oreo-inspired chocolate cake and it was splendid, tasty and light.

So if you are in the mood for some excellent food, this is the place to stop.