Ladies and gentlemen, grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine if you prefer) and join me for the next couple of minutes as I tell you all about this little hidden gem cafe bistro I have found in Bidford on Avon – a short drive away from Stratford. Let me start off by saying that I’ve eaten a considerable amounts Sunday lunches in my time, but the Sunday lunch at Osco’s Fine Food is quite possibly one of the best I have ever eaten. When the chef and owner Stuart Hiorns is renowned for cooking Michelin star meals, surely you’d expect nothing short of brilliance. It was definitely worth the 30 minute drive from Birmingham, we regret nothing!
Osco’s Fine Foods is open 7 days a week and is located at the popular Blenheim Nursery, next door to a garden centre. I must admit, it seems like such an unusual place for a cafe bistro that serves the most ridiculously tasty food, but this is just one of the perks as you can pop next door for some mint and parsley plants afterwards. The bistro uses only the finest local producers for their ingredients which is showcased through their beautifully presented breakfasts, brunches and lunches. Every Sunday they serve 1 course for £13.50 or two courses for £18 and I opted for the Tomato Soup with Toasted Artisan Bread. Josh went for the Prosciutto and Bufalo Mozzarella with Pesto and Dressed Leaves.
The soup was hearty and fresh, and paired with the crunchy Artisan Bread and Gremolata dip (an Italian garnish of finely chopped garlic, parsley and lemon zest) – it was an absolute delight. I’ve never tried this before so I was taken back by how tantalising the dip was. I’m keen to say that both Josh and I thoroughly enjoyed our first courses and I would definitely order this again. The portion sizes were great too so you definitely get your money’s worth. I only tried a small bite of Josh’s plate, but the Mozzarella was delightfully creamy and he finished every single bite. Actions speak louder than words, right?
As for main courses, there’s a selection of meats to choose from. I chose the chicken and Josh ordered the beef and we were pleasantly surprised with our dishes. The chicken was flavoured with salt, pepper, and was surrounded by the most delicious vegetables, crunchy potatoes and stuffing. Slathered in gravy, I can honestly say that this is one of the best Sunday lunches I’ve ever eaten. Josh’s beef was also cooked to perfection, pink and accompanied with a crunchy Yorkshire pudding. Nom nom noms! What’s more, I really loved the fact a board was brought over to the table shortly after to see if we wanted more vegetables, Yorkshire puddings, potatoes or gravy. I really like this factor of the Sunday lunch service as it had more of a ‘carvery’ feel to the meal after that. Overall, I’d give this 10/10 for flavour and presentation.
I’m embarrassed to say I was too stuffed for pudding after two courses, but I enjoyed taking some pictures of the cakes and sweet treats in the front counter section. Naturally Josh chose to sample the Chocolate Brownie in which its consistency tasted more like brownie sponge than a cake. They also have a wide selection of drinks on offer, both hot and cold which you can enjoy with a nice slice of cake or something savoury after your mains. What’s more, you can also buy certain ingredients in their shop to take home with you if you like what you eat during your meal.
On a side note, there aren’t many tables in the cafe bistro, so I would recommend booking a table if you are thinking of going for Sunday lunch or a meal. Osco’s also run events throughout the month so I’ll definitely be keeping an eye on them. If the standard of the food is anything to go by, I believe this place will continue to do well and I’d like to thank Stuart Hiorns once again for inviting me along for a meal, it’s definitely one to brag about. If you’re interested in knowing more, Osco’s have their own Facebook and Twitter pages.
Address: 7 Stratford Road, Bidford on Avon Warwickshire, B50 4LU.
Please note: I was invited to Osco’s Fine Foods for a Sunday lunch with a +1. I was not asked to write a review in return for a meal, this piece was written on my own accord.