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The Canteen

Suffolk, Southwold - Modern British - Café - ££

Warm community vibes and a simple menu full of fresh flavours

Overall Rating: Good

Uniqueness:Does the establishment stand out in the context of the local area? Good

Deliciousness:How delicious is the food? Good

Warmth:How warm is the service and the hospitality in general? Good

Strength of recommendation:How enthusiastically and widely would you recommend the establishment? Very Good

If you're in Southwold, this bright, welcoming spot is one to know. Set back from the High Street and its myriad tea rooms, the Canteen opened in 2022 after the town’s Old Hospital building was renovated and reimagined as a place for the local – and visiting – community. Breakfast is served until 11am, while a counter piled high with cakes and bakes tempts the morning and afternoon crowd– although we suggest booking in for lunch if you fancy a real taste of chef Lindsay Wright’s cooking. Hers is a light, contemporary touch, rooted in the ‘let the ingredients shine’ ethos. Bread from local baker Filo & Twine and plates of pickled vegetables with houmous and crudités open a short menu that includes a generous daily changing tart – perhaps mushroom, Binham Blue cheese and tarragon. A substantial salad, lightly dressed, bursts with the freshness, colour and crunch of raw cauliflower, pickled golden beetroot, nectarine, chervil (pi...

If you're in Southwold, this bright, welcoming spot is one to know. Set back from the High Street and its myriad tea rooms, the Canteen opened in 2022 after the town’s Old Hospital building was renovated and reimagined as a place for the local – and visiting – community. Breakfast is served until 11am, while a counter piled high with cakes and bakes tempts the morning and afternoon crowd– although we suggest booking in for lunch if you fancy a real taste of chef Lindsay Wright’s cooking. Hers is a light, contemporary touch, rooted in the ‘let the ingredients shine’ ethos.

Bread from local baker Filo & Twine and plates of pickled vegetables with houmous and crudités open a short menu that includes a generous daily changing tart – perhaps mushroom, Binham Blue cheese and tarragon. A substantial salad, lightly dressed, bursts with the freshness, colour and crunch of raw cauliflower, pickled golden beetroot, nectarine, chervil (picked from the beds that surround the outdoor seating) and a scattering of nasturtium and calendula petals (ditto), while really hungry visitors could be satisfied by a plate of salt beef with potatoes and sauerkraut or tagliatelle with venison ragù.

To finish, try a squidgy macaroon with buttermilk ice cream and tart gooseberry compôte or Pump Street chocolate mousse with salted caramel and cream. To drink? This is Adnams-land, so maybe choose their Dry Hopped Lager (brewed just round the corner) or a refreshing homemade blackcurrant cordial with sparkling water. Also keep your eyes peeled for the monthly 'supper clubs' hosted by chefs from across the county.

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VENUE DETAILS

5 The Old Hospital, Field Stile Road
Southwold
Suffolk
IP18 6LDGB

07916 173088

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OTHER INFORMATION

Wheelchair access, Family friendly, Dog friendly

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