I tried a hidden-gem cafe that locals love

When people think of places to have a decent brunch, they immediately head towards the Avenues or straight towards the city centre.

However, those who are based in and around Sutton village don't have to venture that far for a great bite to eat. Church Street Coffee & Kitchen might not be as well known as some other places throughout the area, but those who are aware of Church Street more often than not rave about it.

Being pretty local myself, I walked across the village to try out the café.

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I've been tipped off by regulars that this is a place where you tend to have to pre-book in advance, especially on weekends. However, with it being a midweek morning, I fancied my chances. Even just half an hour after opening, the place looked busy, but fortunately, I got the last unreserved seat. They weren't kidding when they said pre-booking is pretty much a necessity.

The interior is modern, lit up by funky lightbulbs. On the wall is a cocktail menu, which instantly suggests that this is more than just a brunch spot.

I was handed two menus, the regular and the specials. I was toying with the Breakfast Wrap, until I saw someone in my peripheral be handed the Benedict Brioche (£14.50) and my mind was made up based on appearances alone. I went all out, adding halloumi (£3) and hash browns (£2).

Even though there were plenty of orders coming in, I wasn't waiting long before being served up this magnificent-looking plate of grub. The golden brown of the chip-spiced hash browns against the cream made brunch look extra aesthetically pleasing.

The hash browns were crispy coated and fluffy inside, and a great way to mop up any leftover hollandaise sauce, which caked the entire order. The eggs oozed when cut into, and the bacon mixed with the halloumi was a belting combo.

By this time, a reserved table next to me had their booking filled. A cheerful chap was chatting away with me. Something I picked up on was that the staff knew their previous orders; knowing what drink the last member of the group would want before they even arrived was just one example. You don't see that sort of service everywhere.

After inhaling the rest of the brunch, I have to say the halloumi drowned in hollandaise was definitely a winning combo. The accompanying vanilla iced coffee (£3.70) was a delight too, and if I hadn't been so defeated after that brunch I'd have grabbed a second one to go.

There's a reason why this is so loved locally, and knowing it's on my doorstep is just an added bonus - although I will be pre-booking ahead to avoid disappointment in the future!

Church Street Coffee and Kitchen is open Thursday to Monday, 9am-3pm.