If you’re looking for a little slice of Italy in the Peak District, look no further than Portobello Café in Hadfield. Owned by Natasha and Alex, who previously ran one of our absolute favourite spots in Whaley Bridge, Portobello brings the same passion, authenticity, and commitment to quality that made their last restaurant so memorable. Now, they’ve created a charming daytime café that serves up a delectable range of sandwiches, Italian snacks, and great coffee.
A Warm Welcome and Authentic Vibes
From the moment you step inside Portobello, you can tell that this isn’t your average café. The space has a relaxed, Italian-inspired vibe, with earthy tones, cozy seating, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. We were particularly impressed by the shelves lined with carefully curated Italian ingredients – from artisan olive oils to bottles of specialist wine, including an Amarone that instantly transported us back to our time in Verona.
Though the café only operates during the day, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a laid-back breakfast or lunch. It’s clear that Natasha and Alex are committed to bringing the very best of Italy to Hadfield, with every dish showcasing the quality and provenance of the ingredients. You won’t find mass-produced products here; instead, it’s all about authentic, carefully sourced items that create an unforgettable dining experience.
Delicious Food, Simple Pleasures
Portobello’s menu is focused on simple but expertly executed dishes, mainly revolving around freshly made sandwiches and Italian snacks. We decided to try a couple of their signature sandwiches – and they did not disappoint.
Kirsty opted for a delicious combination of cured meats and a brie-style cheese. The richness of the cheese perfectly complemented the tender, flavourful meats, and the bread was soft and fresh – a real treat for the taste buds. Elliot went for a salted beef sandwich with a vibrant coleslaw-style salad and a parmesan dressing, which was bursting with flavour. It was a refreshing, savoury choice that balanced the richness of the beef perfectly.
To finish, we couldn’t resist trying one of their desserts. The lemon tart was nothing short of incredible. The topping had a delicate brûlée crunch that contrasted wonderfully with the smooth, tangy lemon filling. It was the perfect blend of sweet and zesty, and the texture was just right.
Of course, no Italian café is complete without great coffee, and Portobello delivers in spades. Their coffee is rich, smooth, and expertly brewed, making it the perfect complement to the meal. We happily sipped our drinks as we soaked in the warm atmosphere.
What also made our visit to Portobello extra special was that we took our baby with us. The outdoor seating area, whilst small, is a great option for families or anyone who enjoys a bit of fresh air while dining. There’s just enough space to sit comfortably with a pram, and the friendly staff were more than happy to accommodate us.
A Taste of Italy, Right on Our Doorstep
One of the standout features of Portobello is the focus on quality ingredients. Natasha and Alex have put so much thought into selecting products that not only taste incredible but also have a story behind them. Whether it’s the rich, aromatic olive oils from small-scale Italian producers or the carefully selected wines, every item is thoughtfully chosen to bring authentic Italian flavours to Hadfield. You can see their travels to source ingredients have paid off!
We were particularly drawn to the range of Italian wines available for purchase, including a bottle of Amarone that took us straight back to Verona, where we’d enjoyed similar wines during our travels. It’s these little touches – the attention to detail and commitment to quality – that really set Portobello apart from other cafés in the area.
All in all, our experience at Portobello was nothing short of wonderful. The combination of outstanding food, exceptional coffee, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere makes it a must-visit spot in Hadfield. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or sitting down for a relaxed meal with family and friends, Portobello delivers an experience that is hard to beat.
We’re already looking forward to our next visit, and we’ll be recommending it to everyone who’s looking for a taste of Italy right here in the Peak District. If you haven’t been yet, do yourself a favour and check it out – you won’t be disappointed.
