Refreshing to be invited to review this small town coffee shop, I was both surprised and comforted to discover a return to traditional values, with supreme service high on the agenda.
An age-old Eyemouth establishment, which plays a real part in the history of the east coast fishing town and is held dear in many a local heart; The Rialto, has been brought to life again and set firmly in the 21st century.
Michael and his team have resurrected the business within the same four walls of old and created a contemporary space with an industrial twist, for coffee and more, encouraging business back and enticing new visitors to the town.
Welcomed as dear friends, (a pleasantry not reserved uniquely for me), nobody can fail to be impressed by the jovial and warm atmosphere which pervades The Rialto. So inviting, Michael has a natural and easy personality, which rubs off, not only on his staff but also his customers – a fabulous trait, conducive to long coffee breaks and relaxed, leisurely lunches.
A brief, simple, yet enticing menu with changing daily specials hits the spot, making use of locally sourced produce, not least of all fresh Eyemouth seafood and shellfish which seems to be somewhat of a speciality. The Lobster Bisque was divine, very moreish and a hearty lunchtime dish with plentiful fresh lobster and homemade crusty bread as an accompaniment. Children’s dishes are also available; priced at a roundly affordable price point and making the most of the daily trade descending from the mums and kids clubs or the beach; literally a stone’s throw away from the front door.
The Rialto is not expansive but there is a rear area, comfortable and intimate, should you not be particularly fond of watching the day go by from the comfort of the front restaurant with an outlook over the town’s High Street.
Refreshing to see this little gem springing up and making a success of a new business, bucking the trend in today’s climate of economic stagnation and uncertainty of Britain’s High Streets.
I am sure I am not alone in wishing Michael and his team very good fortunes in Eyemouth; if success was measured in customer service, his place would most certainly be boasting a gold star – welcome back The Rialto!
Website coming soon!
