The Vine is the definition of a hidden gem, tucked away in Laurie Walk right by The Liberty Shopping Centre’s exit onto Market Place.
If you didn’t know it was there, you could easily miss it, and – as an independent cafe – it is also a rarity inside a big shopping centre like The Liberty.
However, when I popped in on a market day the cafe was thriving – so much so that I bagged one of the last few tables.
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As someone who has always been a fan of a fry-up, my eye was immediately drawn to the All Day Breakfast menu items.
I have never seen a vegetarian version of an American breakfast before (they usually include bacon with the pancakes), so opting for The Vine’s veggie pancake breakfast was a no-brainer.
It featured a fried egg, baked beans, vine tomatoes, a veggie sausage, a hash brown, and two American pancakes with mixed berries and maple syrup – it’s safe to say I was full after.
While the entire brunch was simply delicious, the fluffy pancakes were a highlight for me.
With all its dishes, but particularly its breakfast items, The Vine manages to strike a fine balance between Instagrammable plates and proper hearty food.
The main menu dishes also cater for all tastes, with everything from fish and chips to burgers and lasagne on offer.
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The atmosphere was more like a traditional cafe than a trendy eatery – but I think this is what you want from somewhere so close to the market.
Prices were reasonable considering the portion sizes: most main dishes average around £10, while my pancake breakfast was £11.30.
Overall, I was thoroughly impressed by The Vine and would return in a heartbeat.
