A lifetime in the making, Stretford Canteen has opened its doors to its first bricks-and-mortar site in Stretford town centre on Chester Road. Owners Josephine Sandwith and Dean Taylor are thrilled to welcome in guests after five years of pop-ups, supper clubs and feeding the community at home during the pandemic.
Stretford Canteen will be open Wednesday to Friday 5-10pm, Saturday 12-10pm and Sunday 12-7pm. The cosy 24-seat bistro will have an intimate feel, complemented by antique French furniture including an original 1920s Parisian bar station, alongside an eclectic mix of specially sourced pieces. There will be no bookings unless you are a party of more than six people.
The new neighbourhood bistro is a true family venture. Jo, Dean and their eldest daughter Eve are at the helm, working in the kitchen and front of house to welcome guests. The trio combine their years of experience, from Josephine’s childhood at iconic French restaurant Beaujolais, to Eve’s background at The Creameries, Trove and Duck Soup.


The family’s combination of experience and passion for great food and drink will be an excellent addition to Stretford’s budding community of vibrant independents, as Bruntwood and Trafford Council continue to collaborate with independent businesses as part of their vision to transform the town centre.
Working with local farmers, growers and producers such as The Crafty Cheeseman, Stretford Canteen’s menu boasts a seasonal selection. Diners can expect classic French and European dishes on the opening menu, like Caramelised Onion Tarte Tatin with parsley dressing, radishes with butter, salt and vinaigrette and onglet steak with lentils and salsa verde.
The menu will be made up of bar snacks, plates, sides and desserts. Regularly changing with the seasons, the menu is centred around local produce and sustainable values. There’s also a considered wine list featuring wines from across Europe with a focus on France.


The family-run eatery founded by Jo and Dean has a rich history. Josephine grew up in one of the city’s most beloved institutions, the French restaurant “Beaujolais”, an iconic restaurant of the 70s, 80s and 90s in Manchester. Taking inspiration from her parents’ love of Lyonnaise cuisine, Jo put her experience into action when she moved to Stretford and in 2016 Stretford Canteen was born.
Stretford Canteen’s famous supper clubs will be making a return too, this time in time in their own restaurant as they serve up regular special evenings and dining experiences.
Josephine commented: “Finally opening our own bricks-and-mortar site has been nothing short of wonderful. We’re so excited to be starting the next chapter of our journey with the amazing community in the heart of Stretford, and the reaction so far has been uplifting. We can’t wait to share more great food, wine and cocktails in our friendly neighbourhood space.”
James Tootle, Head of Retail for town centres at Bruntwood added: “We’re really excited to see Stretford Canteen open its doors in the town centre. Josephine, Dean and their team will be bringing something truly special and distinctive to Stretford and we know it will create the perfect neighbourhood eating and drinking destination at the heart of a fantastic community.”
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