Hanbaobao in Stroud

We were on our fourth visit to this up-market garden centre; with a garden and fancy-goods shop, a food/farm shop, a restaurant, and a meeting-room complex. We had made a lunchtime reservation, but being early, we had a good look-around the food and farm-shop. We saw a few foodstuffs that we fancied for a couple of snacks to enjoy at home over the next day or so (these were really very good sausage rolls and scotch eggs). We also bought some jars of pickles: Gooseberry and Coriander, and also Piccalilli: these were ideal accompaniments to our foodstuffs. As planned we took our table at 12:15, for an early lunch; as daylight fades by mid-afternoon this time of year, and ideally we needed daylight to visit a nearby National Trust property. In the event the NT property was closed. On our last visit here in December 2023, we had first tried the delicious ‘Longhorn Beef’ burgers. After a whole year since that time, we just could see how we could possibly not order them again. As this lunch was our main meal of the day we shared a starter of Focaccia bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. I think we were both very glad we decided to share; as this would have been far-too filling to have eaten such a large starter each. The bread was lovely and soft, and there was enough olive oil and the fantastically strong balsamic to ‘go around’. The burgers soon arrived and, as before, they looked great; the rich savoury taste was almost assured. They were without doubt the best burgers that we have enjoyed since the last time we were here. The 6oz burger was flavoursome, hot and juicy with an excellent brioche bun, good melted cheese, gherkins and tomato. There was a plentiful serving of hot, but quite over-seasoned, crispy fries. Desserts were just not going to happen, but the coffee and cold drinks were also refreshing and good. Service was very pleasant and attentive.

We arrived in Stroud mid afternoon on a Saturday. The kids were starving and every other place we tried to get into was in the process of shutting. Despite Stroud being packed, Milano appeared to be the only place open that was still doing lunch or any type of food for that matter ! The lady behind the counter was super friendly and everything that we had to eat was tasty and really good value too. My youngest especially liked the Spag Bol and the proper milk shake made with ice cream. Don`t be put off by some of the reviews on here, it`s a nice place and really friendly. Just don`t go in expecting a restaurant, the clue is in the word cafe !

Very good coffee, tea and cakes

A great New Years evening party - Thankyou! Music was excellent- atmosphere was great and loved the food. Lovely friendly village pub!

Average food...but my goodness how expensive for what you get?!