The Holy Bagel

Ordered their coronation chicken bagel. Their description of this bagel is “chicken, creamy mayo and crunchy lettuce” I received - no mayo, dry chicken, old soggy lettuce which actually turned BLACK on a rock solid burnt bagel. There’s brick lane bagel near here. Go there instead. This place is horrible.

Tasty food and coolest cafe I've been in with archaeological digs/ruins at the bottom of the cafe. Viewed under glass floor with information relating to the history before Colchester castle.

Great location, unique venue! Out the back thered literally ancient ruins beautifully displayed. Lots of seating indoors and out. Good food with lovely christian friendly staff. Whats not to love!?

I feel really disappointed writing this review as the man who served us was very friendly. My mother and I ordered tuna mayonnaise sandwiches and were given chicken and mayonnaise sandwiches which were made in very basic brown sliced bread and with no garnish or crisps. We ordered two teas and we also ordered a couple of sausages and some salad for my grandson which arrived once we had finished our sandwiches without any salad. Once we left and went to the till the gentleman needed reminding what we had and then got flustered and said just give me £20. My mother was horrified at the cost of such basic sandwiches and a pot of tea. Sadly first impressions count. Looking at other reviews and seeing the bagels with smoked salmon which were cheaper I wish we had made another choice. Sad but unfortunately won’t be returning.

Just visited from out of town and after a walk in the park we stumbled upon this gorgeous cafe. It’s is run by the loveliest people who are incredibly knowledgable on the history of Colchester and made sure all of our questions were answered. The cafe is situated on top of ancient Roman ruins that are visible whilst you’re having your coffee or tea - alongside with information on the towns history. I would recommend if you are interested in some history or even if you just want a piece of cake!

Was feeling hungry after alittle shopping, upon returning to the car we stumbled over this little place. The host was very enthusiastic and there was a great feel in this. It was quite in fact we were the only ones but it was just before lunch so hopefully they would have got busier. Sadly the salt beef bagel for the price £8.85 was hugely dissapointing very dry salt beef, no moisture nor flavour really, bagel dry and just very bland and the pickles were also dry as if they had been taken out of the brine to store. I know food is subjective to the individual but with 20 years of hospitality experience this was very disappointing and expensive as they had no other garnish on the plate niether crisp nor salad. Sorry left feeling hungry and disappointed ☹️

A lovey, warm welcome from a wonderful couple, who are doing simple bit effective food in the heart of Colchester behind the castle. To see the history is for free but the quality of the food and drink is worth it. Im not the only one who like to revisit.

congratulations to the new owners!! Great food and friendly service. The room with the glass floor and the old runes underneath is well worth a look. A lovely little café to visit.

I'm on holiday from Canberra Australia and have been in dire need of a decent coffee. This placed delivered big time. Staff seem very friendly too. Highly recommend for anyone after a caffeine fix.

Lovely, friendly internet café right by the castle.