A LOOK INSIDE: Lilly’s Kitchen, Eastway
Located on Eastway in Sale, Lilly’s Kitchen is more than just a new café-bistro; it’s a labour of love brought to life by husband-and-wife duo John Thompson and Lilly Kocha Thompson.
When we visited on a chilly Tuesday November morning, the café had a steady flow of customers from new parents and local workers to friends catching up over a coffee, all drawn to the comfortable warmth and unpretentious atmosphere that Lilly and John have managed to create in a very short space of time. And the café’s popularity seems to be growing quickly – a testament to the couple’s dedication and experience.
An experienced chef with local roots
Sale-born John brings over 40 years of culinary experience to Lilly’s Kitchen. His CV includes working at notable UK restaurants including 39 Steps (remember that?) and consulting at Cicchetti by San Carlo in Manchester. His international experience only adds to the depth he brings to this neighbourhood café. For John, it’s clear that the secret to success lies in the kitchen. “It’s simple: if the food’s good, customers will keep coming back,” he shared with us – and it already seems to be paying off.
Despite his extensive background, John’s enthusiasm for creating great food doesn’t appear to have faded. He spoke passionately about the café’s future, sharing plans to source even more ingredients locally. “If any allotments have produce for sale, get in touch!” he added with a smile, reflecting the café’s commitment to supporting the local community.
Though John is in charge of the café’s kitchen, the idea was Lilly’s. Wanting to open a place where locals could come together over good food, Lilly’s vision inspired John to help bring the café to life. While they initially hoped to open in the summer, delays allowed them to perfect the space. They invested in renovating the venue, with John ensuring the kitchen was just right for creating the high-quality dishes they envisioned. “It was important to give the venue a new lease of life,” John explained, “and I wanted to get the kitchen just right.”
What’s on the menu?
The menu at Lilly’s Kitchen offers everything from filling breakfasts to leisurely brunches and quick lunches. Classic options like paninis, sandwiches, wraps and jacket potatoes make it easy for anyone to find a favourite. For those looking for something more adventurous, the café has regularly changing specials, including fragrant curries, meatballs, lasagne and duck spring rolls made fresh in the café.
Menu item photos © Lilly’s Kitchen
And for dessert lovers, Lilly’s Kitchen is a sweet treat haven. John bakes gluten-free cakes and brownies, as well as daily fresh scones.
Lilly and John have created a café where everyone feels welcome, from the friendly service to the cosy ambience. The local community has embraced Lilly’s Kitchen, with many customers already becoming regulars who enjoy the relaxed vibe and freshly cooked dishes from the open kitchen.
So next time you’re nearby, pop into Lilly’s Kitchen on Eastway – and don’t forget to tell them that Life in Sale sent you!
🕖 Opening hours: Monday-Friday 7am-4pm | Saturday and Sunday 9am-3pm
📍 Lilly’s Kitchen, 24 Eastway, Sale M33 4DX
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