Celebrate Independent Hospitality Week in Walton-on-Thames

5th–11th May 2025
Eat Local. Drink Local. Choose Independent.

Independent Hospitality Week is here—and it’s the perfect excuse to celebrate the cafes, restaurants, pubs, and creative spaces that give Walton-on-Thames its heart and soul. Running from 5th to 11th May 2025, this national campaign, led by the Nationwide Caterers Association, is about shining a spotlight on the local food and drink heroes that fuel our communities with flavour, creativity, and warmth.

Here in Walton, our independents are doing things their own way—bringing global flavours, artistic flair, and a generous dash of personality to your plate or cup. So why not take a street-by-street tour of Walton’s independent hospitality gems?

Bridge Street: Walton’s Culinary Crossroads

Bridge Street is bursting with independent restaurants and pubs offering everything from fine Indian dining to vibrant street-style sushi. It’s a flavour-packed stretch worth exploring:

• Le Petit Café – A cosy corner for croissants, coffee, and catch-ups. French-inspired charm in the heart of Walton.
• Chair & Chai – An inviting café with wholesome brunches, speciality teas, and a strong community vibe.
• Romaan – Authentic Syrian cuisine, including tasty lamb or beef, a good helping of hummus and exquisite pudding dishes.
• Sushi Wakyo – Japanese dining at its freshest. Hand-rolled sushi and authentic flavours served with flair.
• Babucci – A much loved local favourite for bold and elegant Indian flavours in a stylish setting.
• Khao Sarn – Thai food made with soul. Expect vibrant curries, aromatic noodles, and friendly service.
• Prima Fila – Family-run Italian dining with a great wine list and classic pasta dishes that never go out of style.
• The Bear Pub – Traditional independent pub with craft beer, burgers, Sunday Roasts, a pool table and a large garden.
• The George Inn – Recently renovated, The George is a Walton institution offering traditional pub fare, craft beers. Always lots of live music at the weekends too!

High Street: Coffee Culture Meets Global Plates

The High Street offers something for every craving—from artisan chocolate to Turkish sharing platters.

• Cacao Route – A luxury chocolate and coffee bar, with a wonderful array of sweet deserts perfect for indulgent moments and a raft of handmade gifts.
• Charcoal Grill – From classic kebabs to juicy burgers, fresh fish, flavourful chicken or tasty wraps and fresh, crunchy salads something for everyone, take-away, delivery or eat-in.
• Esquires Coffee – Sustainably-minded coffee with a conscience. Brunch classics and ethically sourced brews.
• Olive – Gourmet pizzas, classic sides, olives and pasta to antipasti for delivery or collection, plus great milkshakes or coffee.
• Oriental Chef – The only Chinese takeaway, they have been in Walton since 2002, the chef has over 40 years of cooking Cantonese food in Hong Kong. Open for lunch & dinner with both collection or delivery.
• Cappadocia – Bringing the exciting taste of Turkey to Walton on Thames, Cappadocia offers quality and traditional Turkish cuisine in a stylish setting.
• The Walton Village – A hub for craft beer lovers, with a rotating tap list, and local ales galore. Infamous for its Buttermilk Chicken, pizzas and community cinema, ping-pong table and music vibes!

New Zealand Avenue: Stylish Coffee Spots

This avenue is where locals refuel and relax, especially at:

• The Surrey Coffee Co. – Bright, modern, and effortlessly cool. Their expertly brewed coffee and fresh pastries hit the spot every time. A wide healthy lunch menu, always with seasonal updates.

The Heart: Creativity Meets Refreshment

The Heart shopping centre isn’t just for retail—it’s home to some of Walton’s most creative and refreshing independents.

• Crafty Pots Café – Where art and coffee meet. Grab a latte and paint your own pottery—it’s a local favourite for family fun and relaxed creativity.
• Juice Station – A colourful stop for freshly pressed juices, smoothies, and a health boost on the go. The only one in the UK – so far!
• Mooboo – Bubble tea lovers rejoice. This spot has all the fruity, milky, and chewy-topping combos you could ask for.

Church Street: Hidden Gems and Global Flavours

Quiet but full of character, Church Street is home to culinary gems that pack serious flavour.

• The Persian Kitchen – Serving rich, slow-cooked stews and fragrant rice dishes in a warm, welcoming setting. It’s a Bring Your Own Booze venue.
• Basilo Pizza – Authentic wood-fired pizza with ingredients imported straight from Italy, a very busy take away!
• The Fish Tank – A modern chippy doing things right—golden batter, chunky chips, and generous portions for take away!

Get Involved: Celebrate Your Independents

This Independent Hospitality Week, let’s raise a glass (or a fork) to the people behind Walton’s incredible food and drink scene. Visit your favourites, try somewhere new, and share the love on social media. Whether it’s a solo coffee, a family dinner, or date night drinks—choosing independent keeps our high streets vibrant and diverse.

Browse all Walton independent hospitality businesses at lovewalton.co.uk
Tag your eats and sips with #LoveWalton and #IndependentHospitalityWeek

Eat Local. Drink Local. Choose Independent.
Because the heart of Walton beats stronger with every bite, brew, and business you support.