Cafe Maitreya - Vegetarian Society Award
From A Vegan Guide To Bristol 2005
Cafe Maitreya is a veggie/vegan cafe/restaurant set in the exotic and bustling St Mark's Road in Easton, Bristol.
It was recently declared the UK's top gourmet vegetarian restaurant at the Vegetarian Society annual awards. It opened three years ago and has earned itself a broad and dedicated following for its high quality modern vegetarian food. The food is excellent and has won top reviews from both local and national press. The daytimes reflect the local cafe culture whilst the evenings see a more sophisticated menu, with high quality, imaginative vegetarian food that's hard to beat. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming and even committed meat eaters aren't disappointed.
Attention to detail is high and this is reflected in the all aspects of the business, including its values. For example, the cafe/restaurant uses organic and fair trade ingredients where practical. They buy from local, small scale and/or ethical suppliers and also try to bring progressive values into their employment practices. These concerns have sometimes felt in conflict with the need to be financially viable, especially at the beginning. The business takes a practical approach in these circumstances which can mean compromises, but alongside an intention to continually improve.
There is a sense of commitment to community here (including notice boards and community room hire) But the unusual name "Maitreya" reflects the core value. It's derived from Sanskrit and means "universal love" or "loving kindness" and that loving intention permeates the restaurant. And the food is absolutely gorgeous.
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Story posted by on 2005-05-29 11:15:53.
Story last updated by on 2007-03-02 17:02:31.