Star Buds Tea Room in Redcar and Cleveland

We sat outside on a nice sunny lunchtime. After a short wait we ordered two portions of quiche with salad and coleslaw and drinks. We both thoroughly enjoyed our lunch.

We were recommended by a close friend to try this venue. Following her directions, we pulled into the gravelled area of a garden nursery and stopped outside a portacabin advertising itself as a cafe. Quite frankly, if not for our friend’s recommendation we would not have driven onto the premises never mind stopping for lunch. Nevertheless, we walked around to the cafe entrance and despite it being a cold, damp, February day, we could see from the outside furniture and the view over the nursery that in more balmy weather the location would be quite pleasant. We were also very pleased to note the ramped entrance to the cafe and also to the adjoining, spotlessly clean and spacious, toilet. We had tea for two, served in two teapots, each with its own knitted tea cosy, a jacket potato and a cheese and pickle sandwich. The food was fresh and delicious. The accompanying salad was tasty and comprised of mixed leaves, peppers, onion, cherry tomatoes and with dressing if required. There was also a crunchy coleslaw. Thankfully, the crunchy water that calls itself iceberg lettuce was absent from our meal. All in all, we had a really pleasant meal and will no doubt return.

It didn't take many visits to Starbuds to establish that it was to be our favourite lunch venue. We have always had excellent meals there, and often meet friends and family there for a cuppa, or lunch. No problem parking, and there is disabled access to the cafe, and the toilet, all spotlessly clean, with a friendly warm welcome and excellent service. The food is freshly prepared, good quality produce, and plenty of healthy options. The choice of freshly made cakes and scones varies, there's always something different...and delicious. The outside seating area is very popular in summer, and there is a summerhouse as well as seating inside the cafe itself...which is always cosy on colder days. Open 10 till 4, Tuesday to Saturday (closed Monday and Sunday) and closed for a couple of months over the winter. Easy to find, near Longbeck Crossing, and located inside Longbeck Garden Centre. :-)

Found this little place when plant hunting. The staff are friendly and helpful. Lovely food and service. Very well priced. Wheelchair access.