DAY TRIP
EAT
Chater’s
A restaurant that began life as an aperitivo bar for Vault Aperitivo, Chater’s has become the place to go if you’re looking to dine. “The independent food producers’ scene is great in Saffron Walden with butchers, fishmongers and bakers, but the restaurant scene was lacking,” says owner and co-founder Max Chater, who opened Chater’s with his wife Máire and business partner Dan Joines in August 2022 after the couple moved to the town. It is now a staple of the community and draws crowds of devoted regulars. The restaurant’s ethos focuses on quality sourcing, simple on the surface, refined but relaxed and seasonal. Almost everything on the menu is produced in-house, including fresh pasta every day and baked goods made by Máire herself. Meanwhile, there is a strong natural wine menu and game sourced by a local stalker. Chater’s also has a tasting room that hosts aperitivo workshops, tastings from Vault, and can be hired for private dining. “Everyone is greeted and served like a local, even if they don’t live in town,” adds Max. Follow for updates at @chaterssafffronwalden
SHOP
DEAD TIME Owned by seasoned beer
aficionado Jack, DEAD Time was founded from a passion for small, independent breweries. The shop specialises in craft beer and wine, taking its name from the call shouted by brewers to test the beer: Drop Everything and Drink Time! Aside from beverages, including cider and spirits, there is space for around 40 people to sit inside plus 24 seats outside. deadtime.co.uk
EAT
WAFFLE+COFFEE A relative newcomer to the town’s bustling foodie scene, be sure to stop by this cafe for your caffeine fix or a spot of sustenance served in style. Run by local entrepreneurs Ana Hayter and Tori May, aka The Waffle Women, this trendy cafe is the next evolution of what originally began as their food truck business. Unsurprisingly, the menu is mostly waffle-inspired (although other options are on the menu). Firm favourites include The Canadian Waffle, The Croque Monsieur Waffle, The Garden Breakfast Waffle, The Full English Waffle, The Avocado Smash Waffle and The Chocoholic Waffle. Vegan options are also available. All the waffle batter is fresh, homemade and contains zero sugar – so they’re great for savoury options too. The cafe prides itself on supporting Saffron Walden-based suppliers, including Burtons Butchers and coffee that is roasted just down the road at Ninth Coffee Roasters. @waffleand.coffee
STAY
The Cricketers Although just a stone’s throw away from Saffron Walden in the quaint village of Clavering, this countryside bolthole is the ideal place to explore the town and nearby Audley End. The historic main pub building pays homage to its 16th-century roots with atmospheric exposed brickwork and beams, while a selection of bedrooms feature tasteful interiors inspired by the Essex countryside. Expect a warm welcome, great pub grub and a comfortable stay with a host of scenic walks right on your doorstep. thecricketers.co.uk
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK APRIL 2024 59
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