Portobello

The Italian couple who run Portobello in Hadfield know how to make an impression on a local community. Their restaurant Osteria Sapori Di Casa was much loved in Whalley Bridge for over a decade – and much lamented when it closed in early 2025 because they wanted a better work-life balance.

Their new daytime venture, Portobello, has only been open for six months at the time of writing, but it’s already a local favourite and a word-of-mouth success.

All the bread, pastries, and cakes are homemade from scratch in their kitchen. Head there early for croissants and strong Neapolitan Kimbo coffee, or stop by later on for a slice of their Amalfi lemon tart or tiramisu, perhaps with a glass of Italian wine. (You can buy a bottle to take home if you like).

The sweet treats are really special – and they’re not even the main attraction. Portobello is known for its Tuscan-style sandwiches – their homebaked breads are stuffed with imported Italian cheeses and cured meats from handpicked suppliers. Fillings are generous and creative with homemade sauces.

They also serve daily changing lunch specials, such as sweet roasted romero peppers stuffed with creamy ricotta and paprika-crusted chickpeas, and creamy minted goats cheese bruschetta with broad beans.

The owners may have grown tired of the long hours involved in running a restaurant but they’ve clearly not lost their love of cooking stunning Italian food.