Our new columnist Alex Farrington runs Warrington Foodies on Instagram. The Fairfield resident champions the town’s hospitality venues by publicising what’s on offer

WE are all too aware that the pandemic has hit our hospitality businesses hard, but, with a path out of lockdown we are starting to see some light at the end of the tunnel.

Recently, a number of venues have announced plans to open on April 12 for outdoor dining.

One place I am particularly excited to see relaunch is The Stretton Fox who are now taking bookings through their website.

A firm family favourite, you can enjoy a wide range of delicious food and drinks with plenty of veggie and vegan options too. I am certainly looking forward to soaking up some sunshine in their beer garden.

In challenging times it’s encouraging to see new businesses opening up in our town, and one I have eagerly been waiting to try is Hani’z Buffet Warrington.

Located on Bridge Street, Hani’z was originally due to launch in January but will now hopefully get to open its doors in May. Expect a full around the world culinary experience – an all you can eat style buffet featuring a pan Asian selection of food including Chinese, Malaysian, Japanese and Thai, as well as Pakistani, Italian, Mexican and British dishes. I am particularly looking forwards to the Sunday carvery with an Asian spice twist - but in all honestly it all sounds tempting.

For those of you looking for somewhere different to try, I recently visited the family run, independent cafe R Teapot in Bruche Heath Gardens and would recommend that you do too.

R Teapot

R Teapot

Currently offering a takeaway service from Thursday to Saturday, 9am to 1.30pm, this cafe is a hidden gem – the kind of place that no matter where you look there is something to see.

Think cosy corners, colourful walls, unusual fixtures and fittings, flowers and shelves full of teapots. An artist herself, owner Nattallie has created a quirky cafe featuring art, crafts and creations from Warrington artists on every wall.

Before Covid, R Teapot also hosted art activities and workshops and provided a space for community groups to come together. This place has community at heart, and when able, Nattallie can’t wait to re-establish this ethos and has lots of exciting ideas.

To stay up to date with Alex, follow @warringtonfoodies on Instagram