The Minories Garden Cafe in Colchester

We decided to meet for Coffee at the Minories as we often met there in our 45 year history with the Minories our intention was to go else where for Lunch but as it smelt really good we decided to stay in hind sight may be we should have changed our table ( as my Mum & Dad were sat it the wing chairs) our table was not really conducive for lunch .we pulled another chair up to the table so that we could put our coats on as there was no coat rack , our Coffee arrived in a timely manner , we ordered our lunch , by this time the Restaurant was quite full we were half way through our lunch when I presume the Restaurant Manager asked if we were using the chair which we clearly were albeit for coats I replied yes when she said she needed the chair I asked what we should do with our coats she said put them on the back of your chair or on the floor , we were shocked by her reply as she at no stage offered any apologies . Although our food was good we left leaving no tip as all of us felt her rude interruption was completely unnecessary. What a shame as all the years we have been going there we now feel we don’t want to use this restaurant again.

The café is run by the jam company Wilkins of Tiptree, so standards of food are high. There's a small indoor café area, but in good weather the outside garden is a gem, so close to the town centre but so tranquil.

Lovely garden space right in the centre of Colchester. Tea room iside is also a lovely space. Always good food and drinks here with excellent service. Very busy all year round.

The Minories, whether inside or in the garden, is a lovely place to eat and drink. The staff are friendly and efficient. It is lovely to have the food brought to the table. All the food is home cooked and delicious, especially the cakes! The salads are freshly prepared.

Waited a very long time just for a toasted sandwhich and a kids cheese sandwich - when i went to chase it up i was asked if i had been warned there was a half hr wait? Erm nope i was not...and why such a long wait anyway? The place wasn't that busy!! Food finally arrived, very basic with two tiny slices of brie and not very appetizing bacon inside but i was really hungry by this point! No check back was done, paid £14 - wayyyy over priced! The only saving grace was the free latte! It's such a shame because the gardens are beautiful and perfect for my son to run around and play but this place could be so much better

Firstly I’d like to say the food was basic, the salad we ordered was bland and served without any dressing. The service however was shocking. We ordered food and drinks, and were warned there would be a wait for the food, which is fine. I would have thought however that the drinks (all soft drinks, cans or bottles in the chiller) would have been easy for them to serve whilst we waited for the food. I guess not. We also noted that during our extended wait, over half an hour just for the drinks, a party of four, a group of three, and two couples all walked in, and waited, then all left simply because they gave up waiting to have their orders taken. When the food finally turned up, over an hour after ordering we were offered a free drink which is why I have given a two and not a one. This is probably what you get when the serving staff aren’t quite competent enough to note on an order slip that drinks have gone out already. At least they weren’t tasked with anything really difficult like asking if we wanted fries with that.

A traditional but high quality tea room in a historic setting. Fabulous garden space centrally located in the town. Adjacent to the new Curzon Cinema, First Site and Colchester Castle.

I have lived in Colchester for 30 years and wish I had found this little hidden gem much sooner. The staff are friendly and professional. The cafe is clean and comfortable. We arrived at 1130 and although the menu stated the traditional English breakfast finished at 1100 the staff allowed us to have it anyway. The breakfast arrived promptly, it was freshly cook and was clearly good quality ingredients with good portion sizes. Swaps were available for no cost. The coffee is nice, the cake selection is strong. There is a linkage with tiotree jam factory which is not subtle but adds some charm. A child friendly cafe too. The children were well behaved and staff payed them attention which was nice to see. If you have not been I would definatley try it. I would even bring the in-laws. Thank you for a pleasant visit.

Situated in a lovely building and very close to the new Arts Centre. Offers a warm and cosy environment. Tasty cakes and scones. Staff are very friendly and prices re very moderate.

Good wholesome food. Light meals - not over-filling.. An ideal venue for lunch. Quiet atmosphere and very pleasant gardens in the Summer.

I love the location of the Minories, the garden is beautiful and a welcome break in the middle of town. I really like to support local businesses when I can so I occasionally eat here although the gluten free choices are extremely limited and to be honest the staff don't really seem to know what gluten free means as I was offered Rice crispy cakes without them having any idea that rice crispies are not usually GF which is a bit worrying. So I always opt for the safe option of a gluten free scone, I really think someone who works there needs to taste these and decide if they would consider them a tasty treat! They are like small rubber buns, too much xanthan gum I think. Also there is no provision for children at all, no small servings, no child friendly drinks etc. The bonus is the nappy changing facilities, which are in the actual gallery, are very good. If you are looking for a great range of GF cakes, scones, afternoon teas, walk two minutes around the corner to Jacquelines tea room , not a rubber bun in sight! I really want to like the Batte-Lay tea rooms and hope they take these reviews on board.

A great place to relax from the town and to unwind in the gardens or inside cafe. Good food and service.

We popped in for afternoon tea on Saturday, where everywhere else in town seemed busy and a bit hectic. At the Minories the walled garden at the back is a great place to escape, plenty of seating in a nicely planted area quite tranquil. We only had drinks which were brought to our table, although I noted the menu had a good range of light lunches.

Large group booked and they ran out of bread! Such a shame lovely location and the food that was served was good but how can a tearoom run out of bread when A group is booked in. Sainsbury is only around the corner, get creative.

On arrival The Minories Garden Cafe appeared to be a good place for a light lunch for my wife and I, while our toddler was sleeping in his pushchair; the garden is beautiful, and even on a baking hot day, many of the tables had either canopies or were in the shade of a tree. However, when I went indoors to place an order, things started to get worse. Firstly, the menu seems to be a secret! There were various specials listed, and cakes in a cabinet, but I had to queue at the counter to ask to see a menu; these were then quickly returned to behind the counter once I'd placed my order. Bizarre! Then the wait started. We'd not been told that we should expect a delay when ordering, but it took around 45 minutes for two cheese sandwiches to arrive. I had the brie and gooseberry compote, my wife had the mature cheddar and onion marmalade; when the finally arrived (by which time our toddler had woken up, and my wife had to go out and buy him some food elsewhere as he couldn't wait any longer!) they were just simple triangle sandwiches with a small salad and a few crisps; the sandwiches had to be deconstructed by us to add the gooseberry compote and onion marmalade from the jars. Definitely not worth for £5.75 each! The cafe was reasonably busy with most tables outside taken, but not many people inside. The staff seemed to wander round slowly looking for the right table when bringing out orders; there was no sense of urgency at all. The two stars are for the venue as the garden is very nice. Perhaps it's a good place if you'd like afternoon tea, and you have a lot of time, but for us it was an overpriced and very slow sandwich. Such a shame.

It'd been years since I last went here, so when a friend suggested we have a coffee & catch-up in the cafe I was curious to see if it was still as quaint (it was).

M and I had our lunch here following a visit to the Minories Gallery. The setting was really nice; we enjoyed looking out into the garden and at the folly, and the café area was clean and nicely furnished.

We booked for a large group as part of a day visit to Colchester. Despite knowing how many were in our party and the time of arrival, they were not prepared for us at all. In fact there were not enough seats for everyone and a long wait for service. The staff were not the least bit apologetic. They gave the impression it was our fault for booking. To cap it all the coffee when finally served was lukewarm. A miserable experience to start a day in Colchester and I could not recommend this place for any group.

This is normally a lovely visit in the summer months when you can sit in the garden, unfortunately sitting inside is not the same, slow service, no heating, and food okay... missing many items from the menu

Popped in for a cuppa whist wandering. Very pleasant inside, and nice outdoor seating area in the garden. We just had scones, and a cuppa. Both very nice, althogh the do a range of meals also. Very pleasant and friendly staff service. Great selection of Wilkin Tiptree products on sale.. The wife could not resist a bottle of Damson Gin...Also have a quick look around the art gallery in the front if you are interested

We were invited to a Ruby wedding party in the Minories Garden Café. What a joy, a beautiful hidden garden, superb cakes, sandwiches, and scones and oh so helpful staff. An absolute joy!

A wonderful tea room run by Wilkin and son of Tiptree,a goodles choice of snacks,cakes and drinks in a wonderful location.Try a nice day with your drinks etc in the wonderful garden.

This is a lovely place to stop for a tea or coffee and a treat. The garden is lovely and a nice place for the kids to play.

Es un gran lugar para ir en un día agradable para sentarse en el tranquilo jardines tranquilo lejos del negocio de la ciudad.

La ubicación de la cafetería es agradable, especialmente en la zona de jardín, que es un oasis de paz en un concurrido centro de la ciudad. El café en sí es bastante cansado. Hemos estado aquí tres o cuatro veces en los últimos años y cada vez que vamos, nosotros recordamos que nos han dicho que la última vez que no venga de nuevo. La razón para esto es el horrible mal servicio. El personal es agradable, pero parece ser totalmente desconectado de las necesidades de sus clientes - que es que han llegado allí por la comida y la bebida. Cada vez que hemos sido, nosotros y nuestros clientes compañeros han tenido que esperar al menos media hora. No estoy hablando aquí de comidas sofisticadas la comida me refiero a es generalmente sándwiches. Ayer me observado (mientras espera la comida) un grupo de cuatro personas que nos sirven sus sándwiches tan alejadas que tres de la fiesta había terminado su comida y bebidas antes de la comida, la cuarta persona llegó. En general, estuvimos allí por casi una hora y se aclararon las mesas sin en ese tiempo, así que por el momento que nos fuimos el 75% de las mesas en el café estaban desocupadas y aún cubierto en vacío, tazas y platos. Tengo que recalcar que para la duración de la visita, el café no era en lo más mínimo poco concurrida, con sólo un puñado de personas dejándose llevar. Dado que el servicio realmente lento ha estado ocurriendo durante años desde mi experiencia, sólo puedo concluir que hay una falta de una cultura de servicio al cliente en este café y/o que son enfermos crónicos con falta de personal, lo cual es triste porque la ubicación es tan buena.

Ce café est parfait : sa localisation centrale dans Colchester, au sein de The minories Gallery qui présente des oeuvres d'art et une jolie boutique. La salle est plaisante, le serveur très gentil et les plats délicieux (mention aux scones maison servi tièdes avec clotted cream et bien sûr confiture tiptree au choix).

Fuimos a la Minories al ver las últimas exposiciones que era muy bueno. Hay un ligero tufillo en el aire en el espacio de galería, pero es un edificio antiguo que probablemente necesita algo de mantenimiento en serio. Almorzamos en el café que ahora está gestionado por Wilkins mermelada. Hay un menú completo y ofertas especiales. Pedimos el quiche del día, el bocadillo tostado y un sandwich. La comida llegó rápidamente y era muy sabroso y bien presentado. El personal era muy cortés y eficiente, y disfrutamos de nuestra comida. El café era encantadora y cálida, en un día muy frío de los inviernos y el jardín es un oasis en el medio de una ciudad ocupada. Sin duda, comer allí y disfrutar el jardín en el clima cálido.

Me encantó este lugar antes y aún así este amor. Es como ir al jardín secreto que es tan interesante. Con esculturas de jardín tiene un ambiente acogedor. Vimos un juego Terry pratchet aquí en el pasado y espero que esto sucederá este año en el jardín.

El espacio de exposición no es enorme, pero ¿qué espacio hay estaba mal utilizada, con alrededor de una docena de fotos separadas por lo que olía como un espacio húmedo y desagradable. Hay una habitación lateral con una muestra de ollas y jarrones, muy agradable. También hay una cafetería y una tienda, la tienda tenía una buena variedad de impresiones, etc, no a la cafetería. Mucho espacio, muy perdido que podría estar mucho mejor.

Nous avons visité l'expo puis sommes restés déjeuner. Service rapide et très attentionné, Nous avons très bien mangé, un petit lunch tout à fait à la hauteur de nos attentes, sain et frais. Gâteaux appétissants et petits produits à emporter. Nous y reviendrons.

This cafe is a real treat.It is part of The Tiptree Jam Company range of cafes.Staff really polite and helpful, clean pleasant environment.Beautiful garden where can sit if warm and sunny.Inside same building as Minories art gallery near gates to Colchester Castle Park a must to visit.

I attended my father's and other local artists exhibition here at the gallery which was superb so the minories gallery being part of the restaurant we were ordering drinks from there, the bar staff were extremely rude as If we were taking liberties by ordering a drink and at one point when I ordered a glass of red wine I was told it would be bought out to the table so after waiting 15 minutes and it not arriving I enquired why it was taking so long I was told food orders take priority when I offered to poor it from the bottle to the glass I was again told to go and wait it was ridiculous and we left! It's an awfully run establishment since its been taken over and ruins what is a betiful setting. I will not be coming back untill it's under new management or has properly trained staff!

I used to come to this cafe regularly 10-15 years ago. The garden is a lovely setting with mature trees providing shade and giving a peaceful lunchtime haven on a summer day. The seating area inside is also characterful and pleasant. This was the first visit since Wilkins have taken over and I was very disappointed by the state of the garden: a shabby collection of tables and chairs and several apparently broken canvas deckchairs. There was also litter strewn around the grass...serviettes, an old carrier bag etc etc.On a positive note the staff were pleasant and efficient and the food was good, cod and pancetta fish cakes were tasty and nicely presented.With some attention to detail and some new furniture this place could be 5* again.

Nice lunch in the shade of the silver leaved pear tree spent with the family.I was concerned to see a large lady fall through the torn canvas of one of the deck chairs. It is a beautiful setting and a family were organising their wedding for the following day.As a keen gardener I felt the paved area and the narrow flower beds surrounding the folly looked very tired and neglected dead and dying plants were very unappealing and the paving was full of weeds.

This review relates to the Garden Cafe only and not the Minories Gallery.This cafe appears to be run by the Tiptree jam people Wilkins? The service was first class with the young lady being really attentive, polite and helpful.We opted for the cream tea which was just great. Best scones I've tasted for a long, long time with of course the Tiptree jam and clotted cream. The garden is very large so plenty of room to find a private spot. We really enjoyed our visit to the cafe and can thoroughly recommend it.

A very welcoming cafe with friendly staff and a lovely garden. Very reasonably priced. It is attached to a small art gallery.

I really enjoy this enclosed garden in the summer it's beautiful in the shade under the glorious tree. I have not tried anything to eat yet .It's a bit of a hame that the filter coffee was not tasty appaet from that enjoy the space and the peace during school times as it is popular with families.

Okay, it's basically just a cafe but the garden is so nice and the staff so attentive, that it would be churlish to pass by. It's not dissimilar to the Orchard Tea Rooms in Grantchester, so much to recommend it (but sadly no deckchairs).Afternoon tea this time around (it's been coffee and a book in the garden in the past) - £6.95 for two scones, butter, clotted cream and jam with a pot of tea. If it's raining, it's just a nice cafe in the back of the art gallery. If it is sunny, grab a seat in the garden and press pause for thirty minutes.

Visited on a Saturday afternoon when there was event in the garden. In spite of the long queue for take-out we were seated and served very quickly. Food was nice as usual

Highly recommend this place for great tea and a delicious 'home-cooked' experience that we had for breakfast. Great little place for what a quality cafe is all about it - worth it for just the tea!

First time for me and the food, service and ambiance is great. Baked potatoes for kids, they loved them, quiche for my SO, doorstep sized and perfectly cooked, tasted great. Salmon and prawn sandwich for me, all garnished with a lovely salad and homemade coleslaw. Staff very good and friendly, will definitely be back to enjoy the walled garden that looks like a sun trap in the middle of Colchester. Will recommend to anyone who will listen to me!

We booked an afternoon tea with visiting family from the USA. We ordered lovely cakes, scones, tea, coffee and drinks for the kids. The services was fab, the food was lovely. Great that they had GF / Vegan choices available. I would happily visit again.

The cafe is now run by the Tiptree jam people. The interior has been smartened up slightly and there is table service instead of counter service. I only had a pot of tea and a toasted teacake but both were very good and not expensive. Nice to get away from the shops and look out onto the garden, even on a wet day in early March.

We stopped in for lunch after being recommended by a friend. Really good and fresh good - same menu as the Tiptree tea rooms which is yum. We had sandwiches, ploughmans and salads and all were generous portions and tasty. Proper ham, fresh baked bread and little pots of Tiptree jam with the scones as well :-)Only a little cosy cafe but plenty of room even for bigger tables. Overlooking the garden and old folly which we had a little wander round afterwards. A great find.

Popped in for a late breakfast on Saturday morning, great food, great service and to top it off great coffee. Love the new menu.

This little restaurant is hidden behind the Minories Art Gallery down a corridor past the kitchens. The search is worth it - nice atmosphere with 2 attentive waitresses and a reasonable chalkboard menu for lunch or teatime. There is a nice garden for warmer weather.The hot lunch dishes would be more filling than the vegeburger I had at The Den at 23, so probably a better choice.Wine and beer available plus a large selection of Tiptree preserves (the firm has an involvement but not sure what it is)

Visited before it was a Tiptree Tearoom, so thought I'd see if it was any better. Have to say I think it was better when it was The Minories cafe. Food was ok, tables sticky and not clean, even though they weren't busy. Perhaps these issue are due to it being new??

Tucked away at the rear of the Minories Gallery at the top of East Hill this is a great place to sit and chill, especially if you sit in the garden. Light lunches and home made cakes..

I came here in the pouring rain last week after having left the nearby Firstsite gallery where I could have eaten to find this cafe is closed. I was very wet and very disappointed!

Fantastic setting but hidden away at the back of the Minories Gallery.I enjoyed a cappuccino and carrot cake in a lovely garden setting. Close to First site Gallery.

I would frequent this place quite often about 5 years, not so much these days but it was a nice sunny day and my mum and I wanted somewhere outside to eat. I ordered a prawn salad and my mum had a chicken salad. I had to send mine back as it was utterly tasteless. Disappointing.I would say just come here for coffee and a nice setting.

This cafe has a potentially beautiful setting for a tea rooms. But the gardens and especially the building are poorly maintained and set out in such a manner that people were queuing in a corridor to order food despite there being only 6 of us waiting. We sat out in the garden to enjoy our food on a beautiful sunny day. It is potentially again such a beautiful setting, including a folly. But it was poorly maintained. What the place needs is a change in management. It needs someone with vision and passion to transform it into a showcase. No sign of that happening from what we saw.

I stumbled across the Minories cafe quite by accident, intrigued by a little old wooden door, set in an ancient wall. I thought it was access to the relic of what looked like an old Chapel, behind the wall. I walked through and it was as though I'd entered my favourite book, The Secret Garden. Tall, well established trees, bushes and flowers, beautiful green grass with a little path running through the middle, white garden chairs and tables... It was delightful. I followed the path to the small building that was the cafe, attached to the Minories Art Gallery, which I'd passed on several occasions and even had a peek inside, but never had I imagined this hidden little jem. I ordered a cream tea, averagely priced and was handed a numbered wooden spoon in a bottle which designated my order and went outside to choose a shady little nook. My order arrived promptly; a HUGE home made scone, cream, butter & jam ( though I would have liked another pot of jam as I intended to really enjoy my scone with lashings of everything!), a pot of tea which wasn't boiling but I wasn't too bothered about that, milk and sugar. I asked the sugar bowl be topped up as it was a bit low. Service was polite and friendly. The cafe was quite busy, people sitting indoors as well as in the garden. There were two or three families with young children who played hide and seek at the bottom of the garden, by the handsome Georgian relic, some single tea drinkers, a chatty group of mature folk, a couple of quiet book worms... All sorts. I poured my tea, prepared my deliciously fresh scone and I sat back, listening to the breeze through the trees and the chirping of the birds all around. It was so very relaxing, I wish I'd brought a book. I will next time!

I have known about the Minories for as long as I have lived in Colchester, but never been inside, I had reason to walk past the other day and promised myself that I would stop on the way back to have some coffee. I walked through the main building and out into the most lovely surprise of a garden, gorgeous unmatching chairs and tables, some in the shade some in the sun, beautiful trees and a really nice atmosphere. I went in and explained that I had never been before but was really glad I had made the effort now, the lady behind the counter was lovely and very welcoming, she took my order,I chose a cappuccino and fruit scone and was told to take a seat and it would be brought out to me. I found a table under a tree and within a few minuites my order arrived, it LOOKED perfect and I commented this to the waitress, however on cutting my scone it was very dry, I decided that I would spread with jam and cream and hope it was ok, I only ate half, it was awful, I could barely swallow it, I washed it down with my rather luke warm coffee and left the rest, I sat for a while admiring the garden and reading my book when the waitress arrived and looked a little puzzled by my half eaten food, she asked if it was ok, I told her it was very dry, and asked that she tell the kitchen as I thought if they had any more they should be removed, she asked if I would like another one, which I replied no as its probably going to be just as dry, she just cleared my plate and cup and went inside. I sat for another 20 minuites reading, half expecting someone from the kitchen to come and appologise or at least offer me an alternative or a part refund. Nothing happened. Its such a shame, I would probably reccommend it to others as its such a lovely settting, but beware the dry scone and luke warm coffee!

I was quite disappointed in the food at the Minories, even though I did enjoy the atmosphere. With the open fire and attractive outdoor spaces, the Minories Garden Café offers a very individual setting, hard to beat in the locale.Unfortunately, the food was quite mediocre. Breakfast was just average, apart from the scrambled eggs, which were thick with the taste of margarine – really quite unpleasant. The coffee was just OK, but no free refill appeared, despite it being detailed on the menu.I’m tempted to go back there just to experience the pleasant surrounds once again, but will have to carefully consider a low-risk menu item! Perhaps a jacket spud and a cup of tea…

We visited for lunch and enjoyed delightful fresh sandwiches with salad and special potato crisps. The cafe looks out on the centre's rear garden with its curious Italianate folly - a relic of wealthy Georgian ownership. The centre's director - originally from South Wales - made us feel very welcome and we observed the curious and somewhat provocative art exhibition in the front galleries. The Minories is slightly off the beaten track but deserves to be supported by local residents and visitors alike. A disappointing point about the cafe visit - our large teapot for two contained only one teabag! People from Yorkshire like their tea to be brown, not the colour of weak lemon cordial.

Dropped in for lunch on Good Friday and it was delicious. Salad leaves were very fresh as were the other vegetables. I was impressed at the balance of flavours; just the right amount of red onion and green olives. Surroundings are cosy with interesting local art on the walls. Lovely garden with tables when the weather is dryer. Definitely worth a visit and a good range of vegetarian options.

Ive been here once during the summer and they had live music,gypsies dancing, selling cool accessories in the garden. I love the atmosphere. I went for cream tea only and I have to say that the scones were not that good.

I have treated myself many times to coffee and cake at The Minories Garden Cafe but recently went for a delicious lunch with friends who had not visited before and enjoyed the food and gallery exhibitions. I had a sandwich and my friends opted for a jacket potato and a filled focaccia. It was a busy saturday lunch time and the fire was burning, very cosy! The garden is lovely and it is a particular good spot to meet with friends on a sunny day.

Great location near the town centre within family safe wall-gardens. Fresh local produce and cafe service adds to this quaint cafe at the back of the art centre.

Popped in for lunch expecting to find just sandwiches and pastries, but found a varied and enticing menu of hot dishes as well, including a vegan stew! I had the spinach and mushroom lasagne with bread, coleslaw and salad for about £8, which was fresh and lovely. Even on a drab day the surroundings are lovely and peaceful. The perfect place for relaxing bite and coffee or glass of wine. We will be back soon!

I went to the Cafe in September. I've known the Minories for many years and was delighted to visit their new(ish ) cafe. I had coffee and Victoria sponge, very nice and reasonable at £3.95.their coffee comes from a Suffolk company and is freshly ground. You can also have a variety of teas and soft drinks The menu includes vegetarian and vegan options including yummy goat milk ice cream. A big yes comes for half price on all items for kids, plus a safe garden where they can play (sorry no plastic climbing frames, but they can climb trees and play in the charming little Gothic Summer House). A lovely place to relax, and you can nip over to Firstsite just across the way after you have had a look around the Minories Gallery

We have enjoyed a fantastic Halloween where activities were laid on throughout the day.We all ate a delicious lunch in the relaxing garden.Staff threw a children's party to finish the event and we all left with huge smiles.

We came here to treat the family, all six of us, to lunch and a tour of the very good art gallery. The setting of the walled garden is delightful and very safe for children to explore with its many nooks and crannies. The inside cafe is pleasant, with tasty cakes and good coffees and teas. The lasagne was slightly on the dry side but the fresh salads and home made dips were delicious. Good use of herbs and spices. We all enjoyed it.

We were looking for a light lunch, with a glass of wine, in an outside child-friendly space, in the centre of Colchester! A big ask! But we found The Minories - and it was perfect! Friendly staff, excellent value food, and a fascinating garden for a family outing with a toddler! We will be back!

A beautiful sunny day and opportunity for a first visit to this much heralded venue. A miscellany of garden furniture available, some already occupied by lite biters and coffee drinkers. A smiling girl behind the counter, no queue and simple order for two Americanos, a cheese scone and a toasted tea cake... Straightforward..what could go wrong?!The wait for the coffee could be measured in seconds, nice crockery, a serviette and a teeny weeny accompanying shortbread biscuit..so far , so good, but the coffee could not be accused of being overly hot...indeed warmish would be more appropriate.A few minutes passed and enter the food...a larger than usual tea cake, three wrapped butters, a scone and two wrapped butters, and two knives....Sadly, the tea cake was dry ,stale and cold..maybe the toaster was malfunctioning?And worse, the search for cheese in the , again dry and freshless, scone was in vain!!Total cost £ 8.50VFM 3/10 First impressions linger long..... There is much better " competition" elsewhere in Colchester

A fantastic range of food is available at The Minories and one of my favorites is the Full English breakfast which offers excellent value for money. All food is served to you by enthusiastic and friendly staff in a relaxing setting of the Garden Room or if weather permitting the well kept Garden itself. A range of superb home made cakes are also available, all cooked fresh on site by the Minories own chefs. A big bonus also are the wonderful Art exhibitions that are held at the Minories, well worth a look round while you're there and not available at other restaurants in the town. I rate this a Great place to eat at and award them 5 Stars!! *****

A beautiful hidden gem in the heart of Colchester. Do not walk past go in and feast your eyes on all the authentic features beautifully framed art then indulge your taste buds on delicacies they have to offer, I particularly like their refreshing mozzarella and ripe tomatoes. Looking forward to my return visit to sample the rest of the menu.

The Minories has it all, exhibitions, gift shop with hand made unique gifts, a lovely garden and some very tasty food. Last Sunday of the month throughout the summer, have really enjoyed The Minories Garden Party, 3 bands playing in the garden in beautiful surroundings, a bar and a BBQ. Entry to the event is only £3 so a mere £1 per act. The atmosphere at these vents has been fabulous, a real family vibe too with everyone from babies to grandparents, definitely worth a look.During the week there are some really lovely lunch offerings.

The Minories is an absolute gem in Colchester. You get the opportunity to enjoy artistic culture, hire a venue, sit in the garden, have something to eat and you are really close to lots of other attractions too.I have been here in various capacities, for work, with my parents and with my children. Each time I have been really impressed by everything which is offered. The mushroom and spinach lasagne is absolutely delicious and in fact it made me revisit a couple of times just for that! I have since had the veg chilli which is equally delicious.If you are in Colchester and fancy a sit in a lovely garden which offers a brilliant game of hide and seek with your children, or sit indoors and read the paper the Minories offers both.It has become our new favourite place to chill whilst in town :-)

We chose to have lunch in this wonderful secluded garden so close to town because we had heard it was under relatively new management and had had good reviews. However the food did not match up to the reviews and certainly did not do justice to the environment! The baguette was in fact half a rather dry soft sub partly spread with margarine. The bacon was very good quality and flavour, the brie a reasonable flavour but the whole sandwich very disappointing. The coleslaw was good but the presentation very unappealing with no hint of salad or garnish. I now know that my daughter had a similar experience recently and sent the sandwiches back because the bread was so dry. The staff were pleasant and the service good but I feel that unless the quality of the food improves the owners are missing a great opportunity especially as competition is stiff with the opening of Tymperleys in Trinity Street.

We visited the art gallery to have a look around and did;nt realise the hidden garden and cafe at the back of the gallery. It was a beautifull sunny day and the garden was busy and the atmosphere had a real vibe to it. We ordered 2 focaccias and they were yummy along with the homemade coleslaw. It was nice to see local drinks being sold to and had an apple and elderflower juice from james white and I had a lovely glass of cold crisp pinot grigio which went down a treat. the setting in the garden is absolutely beautifull and I can imagine they do lot sof weddings as I found myself sitting there wondering about mine.

Fresh off the train, I was in need of a coffee and morning tea so finding this pleasant leafy spot just off a busy street was a definite bonus. Maybe I'm blind but I couldn't see any blackboard menu, nor any printed menus on the counter, nor was I offered one. Not being given any help in the choice of what food was available I asked if they could do a cheese and onion toasted sandwich which they agreed they could. I did a double take at being charged nearly eight pounds for this, including the coffee. I'd had an exquisite Croque Saumon at Café Rouge in Chelmsford a few days previously and had only paid 5.25. I sat outside enjoying the sunshine with my book and had read a chapter before my coffee arrived and another one before the food came. It was 10.45am and they weren't busy. The toasted sandwich came with half a plate full of chips [crisps to the English] which, as someone with the sorest of cold sores, was not something I could eat. I rarely eat them anyway. It also came with a portion of what passes for coleslaw which is so overdressed you can't taste any of the ingredients apart from the mayonnaise and I never, ever order this in the UK because of this. Am I being unreasonable in expecting to get what I ordered and pay commensurately?

The Minories' enchanting garden has become host to a fantastic annual event of a Gilbert & Sullivan opera by the extraordinarily talented 'Illyria'.Unfortunately the staffing of the coffee bar did not anticipate its popularity and I queued for much longer than should have been necessary for four hot drinks.The shop is unspeakably and limitidedly boring. I'm sure that ownership of the dull and over-rated collection of the Victor Batte-Lay Foundation gives the immensely wealthy Colchester Institute some satisfaction but I cannot share it.

Whether I go to the Minories Garden Cafe alone, with friends or with my family I never leave disappointed. The food is served in generous portions at a very reasonable price. The staff are always friendly and deliver a smile every time. To be able to take my children here and always enjoy the food, the gardens and indeed the galleries, is an utter joy. Highly recommend!

With Lee Pugh at the helm this previously tired and dingy cafe, that should have been named, 'Loveless Bistro' for anyone who recalls the bullish resentment of the manager, has been transformed and brightened with the fresh white and blue 'art gallery' feel livery (that's a tad too minimal at the counter area as more to read would be helpful) and the smiley fresh friendliness of the young staff. The menu doesn't have any surprises but it offers a reasonable selection and the quality of the food is very good. I have to say that the sandwich choice of Tuna with chilli sauce looked and tasted odd to me so I won't be having that again. However, the sandwiches have great bread and the jacket potatoes (though, in my opinion, are a little pricey) are well baked and come nicely balanced with a dressed salad and coleslaw (thank you for not using the cheap iceburg lettuce). What I would like to see is a good choice of salad as a main dish. I for one love a good quality salad all year round and I know a number of women who agree. I also feel that the A-frames outside should have the menu in A2 size and it should be repeated on the wall inside the cafe. Tell folk about what you offer and make it noticeable. Some things to bear in mind. A very pleasant experience.

We love going to the Minories café for a bite to eat or to watch a play in the garden or view the latest exhibition. Staff are always very friendly and the children love running around the beautiful garden. The art gallery is quirky and fun with always something new to look at. So imagine my joy when I found out they were able to host wedding ceremonies in the garden and the reception! We got married in the beautiful Foley in the garden on the 9th of August. The photos were amazing and everyone of our guests commented on how magical the setting was. Many said that they would like to tie the knot there too! The food was absolutely beautiful. We opted for the Minories special BBQ and I think nearly everyone went back for seconds. The staff took care of us throughout the day, very caring and attentive.They all really wanted us to have the relaxed, family friendly quirky wedding we had dreamed of! And the price is also very reasonable. We had a lot of children coming to the wedding and they all safely ran around the garden, hiding in trees, playing chase. Parents were able to kick back and relax. I do not think the word "bored" was uttered once! If you want a perfect lunch out or something bigger like a wedding check this beautiful gallery out! It is one of our most favourite places to go. Thank you to everyone at the Minories for making our day, one of the most magical days of our lives.

I've heard mixed reviews about the food here but my vegetarian lasagne and my son's chicken curry were both quite tasty, generously sized meals. For visitors to Colchester this is a good place for a quick lunch and has the added bonus of dining in the fantastic walled garden when weather permits. You won't get the meal of a lifetime here but it is a worthy alternative to many of the boring, dated places on the High Street and the numerous chain restaurants all over town. Prices are pretty good too, you can easily fill up for under a tenner per person.

Visited here for breakfast with my 2 year old daughter, sitting out side in the walled garden. The staff were friendly and attentive and the full english breakfast was superb. I've been to a few places in Colchester for Saturday brunch and this is by far the best full english I've had so far! Good portion size and the food was of good quality. We will definitely be back again.

I love this place so much it has a warm welcoming atmosphere friendly staff and good food, I've visited in both winter and summer, in winter you get to sit in front of a real log fire and in summer you get to sit in probably one of the nicest gardens in central Colchester, it's great for kids, no one gets irritated by the children playing hide and seek in the garden etc but there are also enough quiet little spaces to have a peaceful lunch as a grown up.

Just had a lovely cream tea experience. Jam by Wilkins of Tiptree, lovely large teapot offering nearly 5 cups of twinings tea, real clotted cream and very quick and friendly service in a lovely setting on a warm day, perfect!!Will definitely come back

The location is really nice, particularly because of its atmospheric garden. The service, however, was not that impressive. The staff failed to understand what I was ordering - thus giving me the wrong food - and even suggested that it had been my fault for not pointing it out to them when ordering (which I had done). It should be noted for the record that they did bring me a replacement after I had complained about my food. The staff was generally friendly, but, as mentioned, did not respond well when confronted with my complaint.

Arrived not really table service have to order at the bar. Found the whole place noisy waited ages for our food which all tasted bought in and microwaved and my jacket potatoes was cold and my 2 year olds beans on toast were red hot honestly not great and beans were cheap not Heinz do not really see what the fuss is about

Waiting to meet my hubby and looking for a quiet place for a cool drink. Stumbled across this beautiful garden with cafe, just behind the art gallery. Lovely quiet place, felt comfortable on my own and staff were really friendly. I was left to enjoy my book with a glass of ice cold Peroni. Great place to meet friends- please give it a try :-)

The breakfasts in the Minories are to die for! This, along with having such a beautiful, child-friendly outside space makes this the perfect venue for enjoying the summer weather! I'll be definitely going back soon to sample the lunch choices their menu has to offer :)

This is a lovely cafe and the good is amazing. Staff are excellent couldn't ask for any more. If you want a nice garden to sit in and drink a glass of wine this place is for you.

We had a really good time at the Minories last week, sitting in the beautiful garden under the shady trees with a glass of chilled wine and some large sharing platters. The staff are all friendly and nothing was too much trouble-highly recommended.

Nice place to eat , lovely cranberry and brie sandwich. Reasonably priced to. I got a free packet of crisps.

I went here for the first time with family. Then had a meet up with Members from Colchester for old farts and fogies Lovely atmosphere.Food, Drinks. Friendly service.Loved the garden.We are going back booked another meeting. Lovely Cafe. A must for everyone.

A truly wonderful and unique experience to celebrate the Summer Solstice. We were there throughout the day for Rise, Berryfields Fayre and the evening concert. Thoroughly enjoyed the event and the atmosphere was so relaxed. The best thing is they have different events going on all the time and there are regularly new exhibitions to be explored.I also want to say that the cafe offers a good option of vegetarian food. Which is often a real problem when eating out. The prices were very reasonable and the food was exceptional!A very friendly and welcoming team. Thank you for having us! We will definitely be back again.

By luck we walked of the high street into this cafe looking for a cream tea break in a nice garden setting.We hit the jackpot.After a couple weeks of cruising we had the best ;properly prepared and highest quality tea on our trip accompanied by wonderful scones and clotted cream Yum.Just what our tired bodies needed.Highly recommended.

It's been a little while since we have been to the Minories and it really shows. The cafe has been completely opened up and has a very light and airy feel to it. Art work, pictures and sculptures from local artists are still on display. The lunch we had was very good with good friendly service from a varied menu. Top stuff, good to be back!

If you're after somewhere a bit more informal, but with lovely food then this is the place for you. Slightly away from the hustle and bustle of town, it's a refreshingly simply cafe with a lovely garden, and prices are good too. Definitely recommended.

We only had tea and cake, but it was a lovely way to end our visit to the gallery. The two staff we met were both very friendly. Sitting out in the garden was great; spoilt though by the noisy skateboarders just over the wall. Unfortunately, it's not something this establishment has any control over; apparently, it's the Council's responsiblity.The full English breakfast menu sounded great; unfortuately, we got there too late for this!

Had the most amazing spicy Mexican bean soup at the weekend. I love the garden here and theentire package i.e. gallery, cafe and grounds is so warm and inviting.

Great value, freshly cooked All Day English Breakfast served in a child friendly environment. Great place for meeting interesting and engaging people. The garden is a fantastic place for the children to explore and burn off excess energy.

I had my wedding reception here (in 2010 but have never thought to post a review before now!) What an amazing setting to have a reception - beautiful gardens and the folly made for stunning pictures. The food was lovely and it made for an inexpensive reception. We also opted to pay (extremely reasonable) corkage fees and provide our own champagne. I loved every minute of my day there and would definitely consider the venue if I was to have another big event.

This is a lovely bistro type café which is situated in The Minories and makes good use of the gorgeous garden in the summer months. It is well-run, the service is very good and the food is great. Portions are more than substantial and are reasonably priced. The staff are very friendly and willing to accommodate particular needs. This is one of Colchester's most popular meeting places because of its relaxed and lovely atmosphere. Very much to be recommended to everyone.

Great food, nice, relaxed atmosphere, and superb service. One of my favourite places in Colchester as it's peaceful and nice to get away from the loud pubs in town.

A friend's visited me in Colchester and I wanted to treat her to breakfast. Chef Adam cooked a perfect full English. Everything was tasty, crispy and beautifully presented. I particularly loved the little potato bites with herbs. The sausages were good quality and the black pudding was very flavoursome. Nothing was greasy - a joy! The atmosphere in the garden was perfect, with the magnolia about to blossom and children playing quietly. Lee the manager even sat with us for a bit chatting about this and that.