Tawny Stores

Tawny Stores is the sort of place you stumble upon and immediately wonder how you lived without. Created by chef Beth Hammond, whose CV takes in acclaimed stops at Yellowhammer, Flawd and Little Window, it’s equal parts deli, café and neighbourhood hangout, all set against the waterside backdrop of Marple. The concept is simple but brilliant: seasonal, thoughtful cooking paired with shelves stacked full of carefully chosen produce, everything from sourdough loaves and preserves to tins, cheeses and organic vegetables.

Food here has the heart of a bistro but the spontaneity of a larder raid, guided by whatever’s freshest and most exciting at the time. You might find a plate of roasted artichokes brightened with ajo blanco, a herb frittata dressed with romesco, or a focaccia sandwich piled with roast chicken, avocado and pickled shallots. The rabbit and tarragon pie sits happily alongside lighter salads, soups, and house-made pickles, while snacks like nduja on toast with local honey keep things playful. Every dish reflects Beth’s instinct for flavour and her knack for balancing comfort with surprise.

The deli counter is just as inviting. Here, Yellowhammer sourdough sits beside Blossom coffee, Crafty Cheese Man wedges, and organic fruit and veg from trusted local growers. There are cakes made by Beth’s family and friends, focaccia baked daily, and plenty of pantry staples for stocking up at home.

The interiors echo this spirit too: mid-century finds and upcycled furniture create a relaxed, welcoming room, while the terrace by the canal is a reminder that Tawny Stores is as much about place as it is about food. There’s an energy here that’s hard to fake, born from Beth’s years of graft across the region and her clear desire to build something genuinely for the community.

Whether you’re here for lunch, a loaf of bread, or just a coffee on the towpath, Tawny Stores feels like it’s been part of the neighbourhood forever. A true modern provisions store – generous, seasonal, and quietly special.