Old Coffee Tavern dates from 1880 and was built for a local manufacturer and philanthropist Thomas Bellamy Dale to the designs of Frederick H Moore, a Warwick architect. It oozes that oldy worldly charm, rustic with high ceilings, large windows letting enough light in to enjoy the sunshine through with small nooks to hide away and snuggle up in a cosy romantic corner and the food is excellent.
I travelled with my friend Caroline (Ladies Who Lunch Advocate) the short 25 minutes from Knowle to Warwick and parking was easy, roadside, just yards away from the Tavern. It was a beautiful sunny day, allowing us to dine for lunch in their beautiful courtyard, a perfect suntrap.
The staff were super friendly and attentive, and the chef popped out to introduce himself and his specials which was a pleasure to see.
To start, I ordered Smoked aubergine dip, toasted pita, pomegranate and coriander (VG) for £6. Good portion size easily enough for two. Pitta was presented on a board and again easily sufficient for two to share such an excellent value for money. The pomegranate added a nice sweetness, and the olive oil added a glossy smoothness. Caroline ordered Smoked trout on toast, horseradish, and capers with creme fraiche for £9. The dish was served with a lovely zesty lemon, rocket and spring onions. Beautifully balanced dish and, again, a great portion size for us to easily share.
For mains, Caroline loves her vegetables, so she was happy to see that the ‘Cali’ Chicken caesar salad had her favourite avocado and broccoli, finished with croutons and parmesan; it was a firm favourite at £13. I opted for the traditional fish and chips. Beer battered haddock, mushy peas, tartare sauce, lemon and fries also at £13. The fish was beautifully cooked, melted in the mouth and reminded me of my younger days at the seaside; super fresh and very tasty.
We enjoyed a glass of fresh sparkling Prosecco, and the bells ringing from the church opposite provided a beautiful setting for our lunch date.
If you wish to dine at the Old Coffee Tavern, please enjoy a 20% discount if you mention this Solihull Times review!
f you don’t want to drive home, you could always book into the hotel for a pleasant overnight stay and enjoy the fantastic sites and shopping in Warwick while you are there. The rooms are fabulously stylish.
Old Coffee Tavern, 16 The Old Square, Warwick, CV34 4RA
01926 679 737
Check out the website for a 10% overnight stay discount
www.theoldcoffeetavern.co.uk