Chaters Restaurant, Cafe, Distillery and Store

Located at 17 Church Street in the heart of Saffron Walden, Chater’s is a distinctive culinary destination that seamlessly blends the charm of a neighbourhood café with the sophistication of an evening aperitivo bar. This independent, family-run establishment has garnered acclaim for its commitment to quality, seasonality, and community, offering patrons an inviting space to enjoy specialty coffee, house-made bakes, fresh pasta, and artisanal spirits.

A Day-to-Night Culinary Experience

Chater’s transforms throughout the day to cater to a diverse clientele. Mornings and afternoons are characterised by the aroma of Wood Street coffee, complemented by a selection of teas and an array of sweet and savoury treats, many of which are baked in-house or sourced from local artisans like Mini Miss Bread. The daytime menu features counter-style offerings, including focaccia sandwiches and seasonal salads, providing a relaxed environment for casual dining or takeaways.

As evening approaches, Chater’s evolves into a vibrant aperitivo bar. The focus shifts to natural wines served by the glass and expertly crafted aperitivo drinks made with Vault Aperitivo spirits, distilled on-site. The dinner menu, designed for sharing, showcases fresh, house-made pasta and a rotating selection of small plates that highlight the best of local and seasonal produce. Dishes such as burrata with orange zest, steak tartare, and chickpeas with paprika exemplify the kitchen’s creativity and dedication to flavour.

Vault Aperitivo: Distilling Excellence

A unique feature of Chater’s is its in-house distillery, Vault Aperitivo. This modern distillery specialises in vermouth and botanical spirits, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the bar’s offerings. Patrons can enjoy these spirits in various cocktails or purchase bottles to take home, reflecting Chater’s commitment to craftsmanship and quality

Ambiance and Design

The interior of Chater’s exudes a blend of urban industrial chic and cozy comfort. The space features recycled furniture with a mid-century aesthetic, ambient lighting, and a layout that fosters both intimacy and community. Whether you’re seated at a communal table or in a more secluded corner, the atmosphere encourages relaxation and conviviality.

Private Dining and Events

For larger gatherings, Chater’s offers a private dining room set just off the main dining area. This space is ideal for group bookings of seven or more, providing a more intimate setting for celebrations or special occasions. A seasonally changing set menu is available for these events, showcasing the best of Chater’s culinary offerings.

Community and Sustainability

Chater’s places a strong emphasis on community engagement and sustainability. By sourcing ingredients from local suppliers and focusing on seasonal produce, the restaurant supports the local economy and reduces its environmental footprint. This commitment extends to the beverage program, with wines and spirits selected for their quality and ethical production practices.Customer Feedback

Patrons consistently praise Chater’s for its exceptional food, attentive service, and inviting atmosphere. One reviewer noted, “The food is absolutely delicious. Very high-level presentation, excellent ingredients, impressive food all around.” Another highlighted the ambiance, stating, “The atmosphere is great, chill music, retro-styled furniture, temperature and lighting all spot on.” While some guests have mentioned that prices can be on the higher side, the consensus is that the quality of the experience justifies the cost.

Conclusion

Chater’s stands out in Saffron Walden’s culinary landscape as a versatile and innovative establishment. Its seamless transition from a daytime café to an evening aperitivo bar, combined with its in-house distillery and commitment to quality, make it a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re seeking a morning coffee, a leisurely lunch, or an evening of shared plates and cocktails, Chater’s offers an experience that is both unique and memorable.