The galley of a ship is where the cooking is done, often in cramped, hot and windowless conditions. Thankfully, new cafe The Galley in Hotwells features none of the above, but still some cooking, from cooked breakfasts to frittatas and tarte tatin.
Look out from its back windows and with a little imagination you could still be on the water, with a lovely view of the Floating Harbour towards the ss Great Britain.
Housed in what used to be an Indian restaurant, The Galley is full of quirky touches thanks to its owner Romany, such as a wooden model of a sailing boat on one ledge and an old dresser in the corner by the main entrance on Hotwell Road. Tea and coffee is also served in mismatched china cups and saucers.
Although on a weekday only open between 10am and 2.30pm and weekends between 9am and 4.30pm, the cafe has an alcohol license and is already being hired for evening events such as the Mi Casa pop-up restaurant which has previously popped up in the Scout boathouse the other side of the water.
The Galley is one of those cafes where it’s clear a lot of love and attention has been lavished on it to make it the place its owner has always dreamed of. Its superb location alone should ensure it is a success.
The Galley, 133 Hotwell Road, Hotwells, Bristol, BS8 4RU.
