The Two Hares

We hate to use that threadbare phrase ‘hidden gem’ but we’ll make an exception for The Two Hares. Tucked away down a ginnel in a Tardis-like space you can’t see from the high street, it’s from a team that was honoured in the Michelin Guide for their last venture. Hidden gem, indeed.

Owners Paul Sykes and Jessica Hine ran the critically-acclaimed Hyssop until a fire forced its closure in 2018. They opened The Two Hares as a deli a few months later, then later transformed it into the venue it is now: a cafe by day and restaurant by night.

During the day you’ll find breakfast, brunch and lunch dishes that go far beyond what you’d expect at that price point. The skill of chef Paul and the quality produce from local suppliers such as Mettrick’s Butchers combine to produce something really special, even when you think you’re just getting a standard fry-up or sandwich.

Come evening, they show off their classically-trained cooking skills even further, with a refined menu of modern British, seasonal food, such as slow-cooked featherblade with creamed potatoes and bourguignon garnish, or a starter of salt-baked beetroot with goat’s cheese. Evening opening is on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

On Sundays they serve roast dinners, while Thursday nights offer small plates and cocktails as well as the evening menu. There’s also regular events such as gin tastings and paint and sip nights.