After five years of pop ups, supper clubs and feeding the community at home during the pandemic, Stretford Canteen has opened its first bricks-and-mortar site in Stretford.
Owners Josephine Sandwith and Dean Taylor are thrilled to finally be able to welcome guests to their neighbourhood bistro on Chester Road. This new family venture combines their years of experience as their eldest daughter Eve will also be at the helm, working in the kitchen and front of house to welcome guests.
The family run eatery has a rich history. Josephine grew up in one of the city’s most beloved institutions, the French restaurant ‘Beaujolais’, an iconic Manchester restaurant of the 70s, 80s and 90s. Taking inspiration from her parents' love of Lyonnaise cuisine, Jo put her experience into action when she moved to Stretford and launched Stretford Canteen in 2016. Eve’s background includes working at The Creameries, Trove and Duck Soup.
Image credit: Jody Hartley
“Finally opening our own bricks-and-mortar site has been nothing short of wonderful,” says Josephine. “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.”
Working with local farmers, growers and producers, Stretford Canteen’s menu will be made up of bar snacks, main plates, sides and desserts. Regularly changing with the seasons, the menu is centred around local produce and sustainable values. Diners can expect classic French and European dishes like caramelised onion tarte tatin with parsley dressing, radishes with butter, salt and vinaigrette, and onglet steak with lentils and salsa verde.
Image credit: Jody Hartley
The well-considered wine list features wines from across Europe - with a focus on France, of course.
The cosy 24-seat bistro has an intimate feel and has been decked out with antique French furniture - including an original 1920s Parisian bar station - alongside an eclectic mix of specially sourced pieces.
Stretford Canteen’s famous supper clubs will be making a return too, but this time in their own restaurant as they serve up a programme of regular special evenings and dining events.
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. Property developers Bruntwood are working closely with Trafford Council to collaborate with independent businesses as part of their vision to transform and revitalise the town centre.
Image credit: Jody Hartley
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.”
Stretford Canteen will be open Wednesday to Friday 5-10pm, Saturday 12-10pm and Sunday 12-7pm and no bookings are necessary for groups less than six people.
Stretford Canteen, 118 Chester Rd, Stretford, Manchester M32 9BH
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