The Bookshop

An oasis of contemporary urban sophistication just round the corner from Hereford's historic cathedral, this bustling ‘brunch and dinner joint’ is hip but welcoming too. Exposed brickwork, a poured concrete floor and countertop tables give way to a large open kitchen and closely packed wooden tables at the back. Disembodied book pages flutter decoratively overhead in homage to the venue’s former use, while visitors heap praise on the ‘super-friendly’ staff. Brunch menus involve all manner of egg and sourdough combinations – or you can push the breakfast boundaries with, say, smoked haddock and ‘nduja croquettes. Evenings are centred around Herefordshire beef, aged in a Himalayan salt chamber and served as burgers and steaks; other seasonal produce gets a decent look-in, while locally grown organic vegetables are a bonus. Excellent desserts such as chocolate and stout cake can also be sampled with coffee during the day. Sunday afternoons are given over to hugely popular roasts such as rare-breed pork belly with burnt apple purée and a black-pudding croquette, while the short wine list is supplemented by cocktails, local ales and ciders.