Leam’s hidden treasures

The already tricky nature of finding the perfect place to eat out is, for students, unfortunately exacerbated by budget and time. For this reason, in the nearby picturesque and terrifically quaint town of Leamington Spa, dining out is repeatedly solved by opting for somewhere familiar, namely from one of its dependable chain restaurants or coffee shops (Pizza Express and Starbucks, for example). However, Leamington offers so much more. Indeed there exists a praiseworthy collection of hidden gems – independent culinary treasures that charmingly decorate the side streets are just waiting to be explored, with delights that really do deserve recognition.

If you are a fan of delectable tea and treats, vintage-inspired décor and, ultimately, a unique dining experience, the exquisite Vinteas is for you. Conveniently tucked away just behind the Royal Priors, its tasteful antique decoration successfully transports customers straight from the high street into a different era.

Its menu boasts an impressive selection of fragrant and exotic loose-leaf teas whilst its charming “Vinteas Afternoon Tea” (tiers of delicate finger-sandwiches accompanied by fresh, warm scones with homemade clotted cream and jam) is not just a treat for the eyes but for the tastebuds too. One pot of tea there is enough to entice you to try another and the cakes are deliciously moist and moreish; after visiting once, you are sure to visit again. Said pot of tea and a slice of cake is about £4 and well worth the indulgence.

For students who are seeking the combination of great food, convivial entertainment and a lively social atmosphere, look no further than The White Horse. This innovative and diverse pub sits slightly away from the Parade on Clarendon Avenue, and perfectly accommodates sociable students. Its regularly organized student-friendly events (Monday night’s popular £1 entry quiz had us guessing feverishly in order to win the £60 bar tab), and its area dedicated to a wide array of free-to-use board games, like Monopoly and Articulate, guarantees time well-spent.

Above all, its quality entertainment is met by quality food; this eclectically decorated pub serves up satisfying and flavoursome dishes that hallmark any good restaurant and its classic menu also brims with variety. A good dinner averages at £9.

Leamington’s family-run Fat Birds Café sits in the centre of the town and has great personality. It stands out not simply for its striking poppy red interiors but also for its incredibly attractive 30% student discount on all large lunches between 2-4pm rendering hearty and quality lunches at approximately £5. The staff are extremely friendly and its relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere is an ideal environment for catching up over wholesome food, or even a quick coffee and a tempting selection of homemade treats and cakes at very affordable prices.

The Sozzled Sausage, located slightly off the beaten track down Regent Street, is a pub with a lot to offer. A colourful mismatched assortment of furniture and artwork help build up its fun, eccentric interior and contribute to this pub’s quirky character and charm. Offering locally-sourced food and specialising in its renowned range of sausage and mash, its menu is budget-friendly and enticing to all at around £5-6 per meal. For those brave enough, its very own £19 ‘Man Vs Food Sausage Challenge’ (a mammoth platter of sausages, mash, bacon, onion rings, chips, salad and more – all refunded if finished in fifteen minutes) could potentially provide students with a free and exceptionally satisfying meal, or at least a good few laughs if not.

Ultimately, as students we are fortunate to have Leamington at a close distance. These admirable eateries are only a handful of the independent gems to be found away from the Parade, offering not just a great meal but also an experience. Therefore, next time you are looking for somewhere to eat, whether it be in the day or the night, for a meal or a coffee, steer away from the tried-and-tested and explore somewhere new. Leamington won’t let you down.