I’d spotted the Richmond Café Bistro on my travels, but had never been passing at quite the right time, previously, so on the most sun-drenched of days, I was glad when it came into view, once more, when I was needing my hunger addressed.
Their seats outside in the sun were proving popular, so I chose to pop inside for some cool reflection. The place is quite a neat little café. Menus were on the table, and offered a very wide range of dishes, with something of a Turkish influence. Items on offer ranged from a bacon roll to a whole grilled fish, and any number of curious options in between.
Exterior
I initially tried to order the meze platter, but that wasn’t available, so I opted for the bacon, egg and cream cheese bagel.
Three people were working at the counter and in the kitchen, but for whatever reason, it took an extremely long time for my simple dish to arrive. The bagel was served with some salad leaves, olives and a little coleslaw.
Bagel
It proved to be quite tasty, but for £4.95 for what amounted to little more than an egg and bacon roll, I don’t think it represented good value, particularly given that their full breakfast was £4.95, too.
The pricing across the rest of the menu seemed similarly uneven. Their paninis were all £4.95, apart the hummus and roasted veg one which was £5.95. Why? Their baklava was £3.95, which seemed a bit steep, too.
So overall, I found my trip to the Richmond Café Bistro a rather baffling experience. I just didn’t get what the place was trying to do. The dish I had was fine, but rather unremarkable, and the service was incredibly slow. Their menu and pricing is all over the place. Maybe in amongst the mess, there are precious gems to be savoured, but I didn’t find them on my visit.
Scores
Blythe scores Richmond Cafe Bistro
3/5 for food
3/5 for presentation
3/5 for setting
2/5 for service
giving an overall 11/20
Today’s quester was: Blythe
I ate: bacon, fried egg and cream cheese bagel
I drank: water
I wore: boat shoes
Total bill: £4.95
