IT is the cosy spot where you can escape the winter chill in front of a wood burner over breakfast, lunch or coffee and cake.

You can also pay a visit for afternoon tea, in the evening for a full restaurant experience or for a tipple as part of a night out.

Welcome to the new look Bus Stop in Stockton Heath which has been transformed into a bistro by new owners Paul and Lynda Johnson.

Paul’s background is in smart card security but he and Lynda have always had a passion for food while travelling for business and on holiday.

So after retiring from their careers the Appleton couple decided to branch out in a totally different direction.

Paul said: “We took the plunge and now we’re seeing what we can do with it. It’s something we’re very excited about.

“We enjoy food and we enjoy being around people so we’ve brought those two things together and hopefully we can make a bit of a difference.”

Paul and Lynda worked with head chef Ste Melton and manager Chris Lodwick – who both have around 20 years’ experience – to devise the menu, which will change frequently and feature regular specials.

 

It includes an extensive range of all day breakfasts, Italian dishes, a range of burgers, sharing boards and fully loaded sandwiches and among the current favourites are tempura cod bites and eggs benedict.

There are also plenty of vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options – and everything on the menus can be ordered at any time of day.

Paul added: “With the exception of a couple of people we’ve brought in a new team who are very experienced in catering and hospitality.

“We have a big calling for the breakfasts which can be served all day. We also do a lot of themes. The chef has been involved with a couple of Italian restaurants so he’s able do a lot of Italian variations on things.

“We’re going to be rolling out a Sunday dinner too.”

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On top of that, there is a ‘secret beer garden’ which will be open in the summer and cyclists and people with dogs are also welcome to use the outdoor space throughout the year.

Paul said: “In the summer we’ll have the beer garden in the back and we’ll have barbecues out there so we’ll probably extend hours as the weather dictates. What’s unique about Bus Stop is its environment.

“We’ve tried to give it a homely family feel. Somebody described it the other day as being in your living room.”

Bus Stop also serves the likes of wine, beer and cocktails and is currently extending its range of rums to keep up with the latest trends.

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