Red Bus Cafe
Welcome to the Red Bus Cafe, a delightful gem nestled in Colchester, England. This charming cafe, unique in its concept, is housed inside a vintage red double-decker bus, creating an inviting atmosphere that promises not just a meal but an experience. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast or a cozy lunch spot, Red Bus Cafe delights visitors with its warm ambiance and friendly service.
As you step into the cafe, you're greeted by the rich aroma of freshly prepared meals that set the stage for a remarkable culinary journey. Popular dishes include mouthwatering fry-ups that feature succulent sausages, perfectly cooked eggs, and fluffy mushrooms, all enveloped in soft, freshly baked bread—a combination that one satisfied customer, Jay Wheeler, affectionately describes as "lush." Each bite from the menu promises to be a delightful encounter with quality ingredients that showcase the love and care put into every dish.
The cafe is not just about food; it's about community. Regular patrons rave about the friendly spirit cultivated by Di, the cafe owner, who engages her guests with heartwarming conversation, creating a welcoming atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. P. Fereday recalls a lovely chat while enjoying a delightful bacon and egg roll, emphasizing the strong sense of camaraderie that permeates the space.
Location plays a key role in the cafe's charm. Conveniently situated on the main road between Halstead and Colchester, it boasts a generous parking area that can accommodate everything from cars to full-sized lorries. This accessibility makes it an ideal pit stop for hungry travelers or families out for a leisurely drive. Though some guests acknowledge the need for road repairs—with reference to “crater-sized potholes”—the delicious food and vibrant atmosphere readily overshadow any minor inconvenience. Rob W humorously notes that if you haven't experienced a full English breakfast in a red bus, you haven’t lived.
For those who tend to rush their meals, fear not: the Red Bus Cafe serves up delicious coffee that’s perfect for a quick grab. Paul Younger appreciates the cafe's value with its “cheap and cheerful” offerings, highlighting the irresistible bacon sandwich that leaves guests longing for more. With flavors bursting in every element of the menu, it’s no wonder that visitors like Sam Woods find themselves enchanted, devouring everything before the chance to snap a photo emerges!
Long-time visitors like w.l.m. Timmers have come to cherish this cafe for over 45 years, delighting in each visit and as a tribute to their friend Dave Porter, further emphasizing the lasting impact and memory-making potential this cafe has fostered.
If you seek a spot that combines excellent food, captivating ambiance, and heartfelt service, the Red Bus Cafe is an absolute must-visit. Whether it’s a friendly catch-up over coffee, a satisfying breakfast to energize your day, or simply a moment to relish inspiring food in a peculiar setting, this cafe offers a delightful experience that you won't want to miss!
42 Reviews
06 Sep 2025
06 Sep 2025
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