SOUL Café, based in London Road, has been recognised in the 2025/26 Good Food Awards, retaining the title it first won last year.
The independent venue opened in 2021 and has since become a popular fixture in the town for its inventive menu, community focus and live music evenings.
The SOUL Café said: “Our team is like a tripod — if one leg is gone, the others cannot stand.
“This win reflects the collaboration between our suppliers, dedicated staff, and loyal customers.”
The café’s latest recognition celebrates its creative approach to food, combining global influences with classic brunch favourites.
Signature dishes include French toast, an English breakfast with a twist, Mexican-style open Benedicts, and Chicken Milanese.
Its dinner service has expanded to include vegan and gluten-free options, such as sea bass with red rice, mushroom and jackfruit curry, and gourmet burgers.
The award also highlights SOUL Café’s emphasis on collaboration between its team, suppliers and customers, which is a theme reflected in the business’s community ethos.
Beyond food, the café doubles as a local social spot, hosting live music and wine-pairing evenings every Friday.
SOUL Café added: “Their trust, votes, and appreciation for quality have made this possible, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to all.”
Since opening, SOUL Café has also been recognised by the Financial Times as one of London’s best “free-from” dining destinations.
The Good Food Awards website says: “Every great meal begins with a story – and our story began with a simple mission: to shine a spotlight on the unsung culinary heroes of the United Kingdom.
“We believe local, independent food businesses are the soul of our communities.
“They’re the places you return to, the ones that remember your order, and the ones that turn a bite to eat into a lasting memory.
“Our awards honour these establishments – not through sponsorships or pay-to-play schemes, but with recognition based on what matters most: customer opinion.
“Every Good Food Award is free to enter and built on real customer experiences.
“There are no pricey dinner galas, no acceptance fees, and no paywalls hiding the results.
“Just honest recognition, freely given.
“When our winners take the spotlight, they shine together – no ads, no distractions, just well-earned applause.”
