The Lounge in Stone – Lunch
Hot, sunny April days like these are meant to be enjoyed, and what better way to soak up the sun than with a continental style lunch at one of Stone’s favourite cafes. Stepping out of the studio for the first time today, it is hard to believe that it is only April, temperatures are way above average and the sun is high in the sky and HOT.
Walking down into town, through the high street and the atmosphere, the sounds, the smells, reminiscent of far away places, European cities, the hustle and bustle of the cosmopolitan lifestyle lived out everyday on the continent. With all these sensations abound we want coffee, thick, black and sweet. Espresso. The obvious choice then is The Lounge Cafe and Portuguese Restaurant in Stone.
Tom and I take a seat outside in the glorious sunshine, amongst an already busy dining area, make a selection from the expansive menu, usually opting for the Staffordshire breakfast which is really excellent (fresh, tasty and locally sourced), being a little after 3 o’clock we opt for lighter bites. I order a cheeseburger with curly fries, served with classic salad and mayonnaise, Tom opts for chicken panini again with curly fries and salad (straight chips are available as the alternative).
As we chat and watch the world go by taking in the leisurely pace of life in Stone, we sip on our drinks, fresh orange for Tom, iced water pour moi. The food arrives, and as we’ve never ordered these dishes before we’re pleasantly surprised, portions sizes are above average and most importantly the food is piping hot and tasty just as simple snack food like this must be.
Our waitress is attentive and polite, making certain that we have all the necessary sauces and condiments, albeit that she seems fairly new and slightly nervous. A nice girl nonetheless and competent. As we close towards the end of our meals I give the signal to our lovely waitress that we are ready for our coffees. My favourite part of the meal is upon us.
The double espressos are terrific, Camelo brand coffee, thick and gloopy with a creamy white foam. Three brown sugars and we’re stirring. The aroma is fantastic, the anticipation is rising and I can hardly wait a moment longer and… mmmm yes, that’s the ticket. Perfect. Tom is in a trance like state, glazed and drifting in a world of coffee flavoured dreams.
Having settled the bill upon ordering we are free to savour the atmosphere further before we exit for the afternoon and back to the work we left behind an hour or so ago, confident that the double hit of espresso joy will guide us through it. A welcome break in the afternoon sun. Worth a visit any summers day. Eat Drink Enjoy.