Take the £2 Bus Challenge. Discover Great Food Without Breaking the Bank

Who says a great food adventure has to involve an expensive train ticket or a tank full of petrol?

With the Government-backed maximum £2 single bus fare available on many routes across England, there's never been a better excuse to hop on a bus and discover cafés, restaurants, pubs and hidden foodie gems you may never have visited before.

Most of us have our favourite local places to eat, but how often do we venture to the other side of town, the next village, or that market town we've driven past dozens of times?

A simple £2 bus ticket can open up a whole new world of flavours.

Why not make a day of it? Start with breakfast at a café you've never tried before, browse the local independent shops, visit a museum or park, then enjoy lunch in a family-run restaurant. 

If you're heading out in the evening, the bus is also a great way to visit a country pub, enjoy a leisurely meal and perhaps sample a locally brewed ale or cider without worrying about driving home afterwards. If you are going out in the evenings do check on the times of the last buses home.

Many rural pubs are destinations in their own right. Nestled in picturesque villages or overlooking beautiful countryside, they often serve locally sourced food that rivals anything you'll find in the city. Likewise, urban neighbourhoods frequently hide independent cafés and restaurants that deserve far more attention than the big chains.

Food tourism doesn't have to mean travelling hundreds of miles. Sometimes the best discoveries are just a few bus stops away.

You could even set yourself a personal challenge. Every month, choose a different bus route and get off somewhere you've never visited before. Search out the highest-rated café, bakery, fish and chip shop, tea room or pub and see what all the fuss is about. You might uncover the best Sunday roast, the perfect afternoon tea or an unforgettable curry just a short journey from home.

Travelling by bus also gives you the chance to sit back and enjoy the scenery instead of concentrating on the road. It's a more relaxed way to travel and can be kinder to both your wallet and the environment.

At That's Food and Drink, we'd love to hear about your discoveries. If you've found a fantastic café, cosy village pub, brilliant bakery or outstanding restaurant thanks to a £2 bus journey, let us know. Your recommendation could inspire fellow readers to embark on their own foodie adventure.

Sometimes the best meals aren't found by searching online, they're discovered by simply catching the next bus.

Mumbai Meets Mayfair: Bombay Bustle x Bunta Beer Bustle Bowls

Bombay Bustle has teamed up with recently launched Bunta Beer to give your lunch plans an upgrade - say hello to the Bunta Bustle Bowl! 

Pairing Bombay Bustle's iconic Bustle Bowls with Bunta, brewed with bright citrus notes and a clean finish crafted to complement the spice, richness and layered flavours of Indian cuisine, this limited-edition meal deal of the moment is made for every occasion, from client lunches to catch-ups with friends or a well-earned midday break. 

Bombay Bustle brings the energy, diversity and flavours of Mumbai to the heart of London's iconic Mayfair. 

Inspired by the city's iconic dabbawalas and the remarkable lunchbox network that has kept Mumbai moving for over a century, the restaurant celebrates Indian cuisine through bold regional flavours, generous hospitality and dishes designed to be shared. 

At its heart is the spirit of Mumbai itself, a city where food is woven into everyday life, bringing people together across homes, workplaces and communities.

Bunta Beer complements Bombay Bustle's modern interpretation of Indian dining, encouraging guests to slow down, share a meal and enjoy the conviviality that has always been at the heart of Indian food culture.

Bombay Bustle and Bunta Beer have joined forces over a shared passion for Indian heritage, storytelling and innovation. Guests can enjoy signature Bustle Bowls paired with Bunta Beer as part of a limited-edition lunch and early dinner menu, available Monday to Sunday.

Together, the brands are highlighting how Indian cuisine deserves the same level of thoughtful drink pairing traditionally associated with other global cuisines.

The Bombay Bustle x Bunta Beer pairing menu

MAGIC MASALA BOWL + Bunta Beer — £28

Paneer Pasanda, Til Til Aloo, Jeera Rice, Paratha & Green Chilli Pickle

GRAND PUNJAB BOWL + Bunta Beer — £30

Saag Murgh, Til Til Aloo, Jeera Rice, Paratha, Mango Pickle & Kachumber

COASTAL CURRY BOWL + Bunta Beer — £33

Malabar Lamb Curry, Til Til Aloo, Jeera Rice, Paratha, Lime Pickle & Kachumber

Speaking about the partnership, Bunta Beer founder Gunikka Ahuja told That's Food and Drink: “Bunta celebrates the flavours and memories of Indian culture, bringing them into London's modern dining scene. We want to redefine non-alcoholic beer as a premium, flavour-led pairing that belongs at the table.”

Chef Surender Mohan, Culinary Director at LSL Capital, (owner of Bombay Bustle) told us: "For me, it's always about flavour first. I don't drink alcohol myself, so I'm always looking for drinks that can genuinely complement a meal. 

"Bunta Beer has a clean, refreshing character that works beautifully with the bold spices and regional flavours of our Bustle Bowls. It felt like a pairing that made perfect sense.

"We were drawn to Bunta's appreciation of Indian cuisine and the thoughtfulness behind a beer crafted to complement its bold, layered flavours. Together, we are celebrating Indian flavours in a fresh and contemporary way, creating a pairing that feels approachable, memorable and rooted in the vibrant spirit of Bombay.”

And Gunikka's top bowl choice?

“I'd probably choose the Grand Punjab Bowl.

There's something incredibly nostalgic about saag. Growing up, it was one of those dishes that appeared on the table during family meals and everyone instinctively reached for it. With the freshness of Bunta alongside it, the richness feels beautifully balanced. It's comforting but still feels surprisingly light.”

Bunta Beer X Bombay Bustle runs until the end of September.

You'll find them at 29 Maddox St, London W1S 2PA

For bookings visit www.bombaybustle.com or call 020 7290 4470.

Did Somebody Say Sponge? Enjoy Summery Delights for Al Fresco Cake Eating from Sponge

Online bakery retailer Sponge has created a selection of special limited-edition summer essentials as everyone heads outside with picnic blankets and hampers to enjoy the warm weather.

Designed to be the perfect sweet accompaniment to all outdoor dining experiences, whether it’s a trip to the beach, heading off on a summer day out or simply enjoying a spot of al fresco dining in the garden, this new range of colourful sweet treats have been made using traditional techniques with a spot of fun mixed in.

Sponge is passionate for quality ingredients and ensuring there’s something for everyone with its wide selection of gluten free and vegan treats, accredited by the Coeliac and Vegan Society.

Circus Tent Baby Sponges

Roll up, roll up! Sponge’s Circus Tent Baby Sponges are coming to town.

Set to be the main attraction for the summer, these miniature yet perfectly formed sponges are getting ready to wow customers with their vibrant colours and standout flavours.

Sponge isn’t clowning around with the taste and is making summer fruits the star of the show with four delicious combinations: Lemon and the quintessentially British and classic Victoria Sponge, with Chocolate and Coffee also available.

With no need for plates, knives or even cake forks and perfectly formed as a bite-size treat, the baby sponges are ideal to pop in a hamper for a picnic, grab as a treat on a road trip adventure or serve to guests who have popped over to make the most of the brighter evenings in the garden.

The Circus Tent Baby Sponges are £15.50 for a pack of four, with gluten-free versions also available for £15.95. Purchase online via www.sponge.co.uk

But there's even more!

Strawberry Sprinkle Cake

One of this summer’s food trends in America is sprinkle cakes, or dot cakes as they’re known over there.

Sponge is way ahead of the curve and earlier this year launched its Strawberry Sprinkle Cake in collaboration with East Anglian charity Break.

The new Strawberry Sprinkle Cake features a soft, fluffy vanilla sponge with smooth, fruity strawberry buttercream and a layer of sweet strawberry jam, finished with a scattering of colourful sprinkles and for every cake sold, 20% of sales will go directly to Break.

So when deciding which cake to go for this summer for the next garden party, choose this special option which helps make a difference. 

I'm thinking of a glass of chilled Proseco to help with these, though Pimms or a nice pot of tea would be equally nice.

Sponge’s Strawberry Sprinkle Cake is available to purchase on www.sponge.co.uk for £21.99 and £23.25 for the gluten free version.

Love What We Do? Buy Us a Coffee and Help Keep That's Food and Drink Brewing!

If you're a regular reader of That's Food and Drink, first of all, thank you. And if you are a new reader, welcome!

Whether you've discovered a new restaurant, found inspiration for your next home-cooked meal, learnt about a fascinating food producer, or simply enjoyed reading about the wonderful world of food and drink, we're delighted you've chosen to spend some of your time with us.

What many people don't realise is that That's Food and Drink is an independent publication. There isn't a large publishing company behind the scenes, nor a newsroom full of paid staff. 

The site is produced by just the two of us, driven by a genuine passion for sharing great stories, celebrating independent businesses and bringing our readers interesting food and drink news from across the UK and beyond.

Running an independent blog isn't as inexpensive as it might appear. There are domain names and web services to pay for, photography and design costs, software subscriptions, travel expenses, internet services and countless hours spent researching, writing, editing and promoting every article we publish.

We happily invest that time because we believe independent publishing still has an important place in today's media landscape. We enjoy highlighting local businesses, championing family-run producers, showcasing exciting new products and helping readers discover something new.

If you've ever found one of our articles useful, informative or entertaining, and would like to help support our work, we'd be incredibly grateful if you considered buying my wife and me a coffee.

It's a simple way of saying, "Thanks for what you do," and every contribution, no matter the size, helps us continue producing fresh content for everyone to enjoy.

Your support helps us keep visiting events, reviewing products, covering food festivals, discovering hidden gems and bringing you regular articles throughout the year.

Of course, there's absolutely no obligation. Reading our articles, sharing them with friends, commenting and following us on social media all make a real difference too. Every reader helps our community grow.

But if you'd like to go one step further and help fuel the next article (quite literally with a good cup of coffee!), we'd be hugely appreciative.

Thank you for being part of the That's Food and Drink family. Your support means more than you might imagine, and we look forward to bringing you many more stories celebrating the very best in food, drink and hospitality.

☕ If you'd like to support our work, simply click the "Buy Me a Coffee" button or link on our website. Every coffee helps keep That's Food and Drink publishing independent.

Discover Huel – Convenient, Nutritious Meals for Busy Lives

Finding time to prepare healthy, balanced meals isn't always easy. 

Whether you're rushing to work, travelling, working from home or simply looking for a convenient alternative to fast food, Huel has become one of the UK's most popular options for people who want good nutrition without spending hours in the kitchen.

Huel's philosophy is simple: provide nutritionally complete food that is quick to prepare, affordable and made with carefully selected plant-based ingredients. 

The range includes delicious drinks, meal powders, ready-to-drink meals, hot and savoury pots, snack bars and protein products, making it easy to find something that fits your lifestyle.

One of the biggest advantages of Huel is convenience. A nutritionally balanced meal can be ready in just a couple of minutes, making it ideal for busy professionals, students, commuters and anyone who occasionally needs a healthy meal on the go. Instead of reaching for crisps, chocolate or a takeaway, many people find that Huel helps them stay on track with their nutritional goals.

The products are designed to provide a balance of protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, fibre and a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals. They're also suitable for a variety of dietary preferences, with much of the range being vegan-friendly.

Of course, Huel isn't intended to replace every meal you eat. Fresh fruit, vegetables and home-cooked meals remain an important part of a balanced diet. However, having Huel available for those occasions when life gets hectic can be a practical way to avoid skipping meals or making less healthy choices.

Many users also appreciate the consistency. Every serving provides the same nutritional profile, making it easier to keep track of what you're eating. The ready-to-drink bottles are particularly useful when travelling, while the Hot & Savoury meals offer a warming alternative with minimal preparation.

Join Huel Through That's Food and Drink

We've teamed up with Huel to make it even easier for our readers to give the range a try.

Simply scan the exclusive QR code featured on That's Food and Drink to visit Huel through our exclusive link and explore the full range of products. It's a quick and easy way to discover whether Huel could become a useful addition to your daily routine.

Whether you're looking for a convenient breakfast, an easy lunch between meetings, a post-workout meal or simply a healthier option when time is short, Huel is well worth considering.

Have you already tried Huel? We'd love to hear which products are your favourites and how they've fitted into your lifestyle. Share your experiences in the comments and help other readers discover a convenient way to enjoy balanced nutrition.

My wife and I are very satisfied Huel customers. You'll be able to recognise other happy Huel users by their rather funky but discrete Huel black t-shirts, free with your first order!

North Meets South as Bristol Food Legends Join Forces

Bristol's thriving independent food and drink scene has gained another exciting collaboration, as Psychopomp Microdistillery and the much-loved Sonny Stores have teamed up to create a unique destination where outstanding spirits meet exceptional seasonal food.

The partnership brings together two of the city's best-known independent names, linking North Bristol with Southville in a celebration of local creativity, craftsmanship and flavour. 

Visitors to Psychopomp's recently reopened bar on St Michael's Hill can now enjoy a specially curated menu from Sonny Stores alongside the distillery's award-winning small-batch spirits and inventive cocktails.

It's a collaboration that feels like a natural fit. Sonny Stores has earned an enviable reputation for simple, ingredient-led cooking that lets quality produce shine, while Psychopomp has become one of Britain's most innovative craft distilleries thanks to its bold and experimental approach to creating spirits.

The new menu takes inspiration from the Venetian tradition of cicchetti – small plates packed with flavour and designed to accompany drinks. Diners can expect an ever-changing selection that celebrates the seasons while perfectly complementing the distillery's handcrafted spirits.

Tempting dishes include Pork Collar Cold Cuts, indulgent Fried Gorgonzola Sandwiches, Hot Smoked Pork Ribs with Jalapeños, and seafood favourites including Clams and Scallops with Pancetta. Larger sharing plates will also make appearances, ensuring there's plenty to tempt visitors whether they're popping in for a cocktail or settling in for a leisurely evening.

Psychopomp founder Liam Hirt, a former cardiologist who also established Circumstance Distillery, believes the partnership adds an exciting new dimension to the venue.

He says the team has always believed great spirits deserve equally great food, and that Sonny Stores' seasonal, unfussy cooking perfectly matches their philosophy of flavour and craftsmanship.

Meanwhile, Sonny Stores founder and head chef Pegs Quinn says the menu has been designed around bold flavours that work beautifully with what's in the glass, creating an experience inspired by the relaxed food-and-drink culture of Venetian wine bars.

The collaboration also highlights everything that makes Bristol's independent hospitality scene so special. Rather than competing, two respected local businesses have chosen to work together, creating something neither could offer alone while giving visitors another reason to explore one of the UK's most exciting food cities.

Whether you're a fan of expertly distilled spirits, seasonal cooking or simply discovering brilliant independent venues, this new partnership offers a delicious excuse to head to St Michael's Hill. It's a true taste of Bristol under one roof, showcasing local talent, local produce and the city's wonderfully collaborative food and drink culture.

Psychopomp X Sonny Stores 

145 St Michaels Hill; Bristol; England; BS2 8DJ.

Opening hours: 

Wednesday-Friday 12PM-3PM

Thursday–Friday 5 PM–10 PM, Saturday 6 PM–10 PM

New Pineapple and Passion Fruit Conserve from Bonne Maman

Introducing the first ever tropical flavour from Bonne Maman, new Pineapple and Passion Fruit Conserve is a vibrant and exotic addition to the extensive range. 

Bursting with quality fruit, the sun-ripened sweetness of the pineapple is perfectly balanced by the subtle, sharper accent of passion fruit. 

Whether enjoyed spread generously on warm toast, as an ingredient to add an exotic twist to your favourite bakes or stirred through yoghurt, new Bonne Maman Pineapple and Passion Fruit Conserve brings a delicious and evocative burst of tropical summer sunshine to the table.

Bursting with juicy fruit pieces and vibrant exotic flavours, Pineapple and Passion Fruit Conserve is perfect for summer makes and bakes. Two delicious, simple new recipes Flower Puff Pastries and Tropical Pineapple, Passionfruit & Coconut Traybake are gorgeous for many occasions. 

he pretty, flakey jam flower puffs are the perfect addition to afternoon tea, while the sunshine inspired, soft buttery traybake makes a delicious, 'cut and share' cake or easy pudding.

This exciting new flavour joins Bonne Maman's Rares and Wilds Conserve range – all made with no artificial colours or flavourings - including Strawberry & Wild Strawberry Conserve, Black Cherry Conserve, Wild Blueberry Conserve and Mirabelle Plum Conserve.

Presented in the iconic Bonne Maman 370g jar, new Pineapple and Passion Fruit Conserve is now available nationwide from Tesco and Morrisons stores and online on Ocado at rrp £3.99.

Trevethan Gin Brings a Taste of Modern Heritage to Cocktails in the City

If you're looking for a great excuse to enjoy a summer cocktail in London, Cocktails in the City is shaping up to be one of the season's must-visit events. 

Returning to the beautiful surroundings of Bedford Square Gardens from 6–8 August, the festival promises an impressive mix of world-class bars, live music, street food, tastings and, of course, some truly memorable drinks.

Among this year's highlights is Trevethan Original 1929 Dry Gin, a spirit with a fascinating story that proves good ideas never really go out of fashion.

The tale begins almost a century ago when Norman Trevethan created his own "bathtub" gin while working as a chauffeur on Cornwall's stunning Port Eliot Estate during the glamorous golden age of cocktails. 

More than 80 years later, the forgotten recipe was rediscovered by chemist-turned-master distiller John Hall, who lovingly recreated it as an award-winning London Dry Gin.

Now that historic recipe is enjoying a fresh chapter as Trevethan partners with The Gin Bar at Holborn Dining Room, Rosewood London, creating two exclusive cocktails especially for this year's festival.

It's all part of a growing trend known as modern heritage – where classic spirits and traditional craftsmanship meet contemporary creativity behind the bar. Today's cocktail lovers increasingly want more than just a well-made drink. They enjoy discovering the stories behind the bottles, the places they come from and the people who keep those traditions alive while giving them a fresh twist.

Trevethan's Brand Manager, Carly Fordy, told That's Food and Drink that the aim is to show how a handcrafted London Dry Gin can be transformed by talented bartenders into something exciting for today's drinkers while still respecting its heritage.

Festival visitors will have the chance to sample two limited-edition serves.

The Eden Highball is a light and refreshing summer drink combining Trevethan Original 1929 Dry Gin with elderflower, tropical tea and fresh lime. Finished with sparkling bubbles and an elderflower jelly garnish, it sounds like the perfect companion for a warm August afternoon.

Meanwhile, Zest & Stone offers something a little more adventurous, blending the gin with yuzu sake, peach, lemon and fig leaf soda before being finished with a fragrant peach spray. It promises plenty of bright, seasonal flavours with a distinctive botanical character.

Cocktails in the City has built a reputation for bringing together some of London's finest bars alongside international cocktail talent, giving visitors the chance to sample exclusive creations they might otherwise never discover.

Whether you're a dedicated gin enthusiast or simply enjoy discovering new drinks in a relaxed summer setting, Trevethan's modern take on a classic Cornish recipe looks set to be one of the festival's standout attractions. Sometimes the best way to celebrate history is simply to pour it over ice, add a little creativity, and raise a glass.

Cocktails in the City

Dates: 6–8 August

Venue: Bedford Square Gardens, London WC1B 3HH

Nearest Underground: Tottenham Court Road

https://cocktailsinthecity.com/tickets

Introducing Bonne Maman's new Seedless Raspberry Conserve

Introducing new Bonne Maman Seedless Raspberry. Gently cooked to bring out all the natural fruit flavours, this classic Bonne Maman Conserve is full of pure, juicy, ripe raspberry flavour, but made to a perfectly smooth consistency so 100% no seeds.

A delicious and versatile new addition to the family kitchen for those who like their raspberry flavour just so! 

Seedless Raspberry is absolutely gorgeous spread on warm sourdough and crumpets at the breakfast table, enjoyed during an afternoon tea, such as scooped onto these freshly baked Buttermilk Scones with fresh cream, or used as a vibrant ingredient in a variety of recipes, like a delicious Raspberry Ripple Ice Cream or indulgent Raspberry & White Chocolate Cheesecake, adding a smooth, seedless fruit twist to everything from classic cakes and bakes, glossy glazes, children's ice lollies and tempting mock and cocktails.

Presented in the iconic Bonne Maman 370g jar, the new Seedless Raspberry Conserve is now available nationwide at Waitrose, Morrisons and ASDA stores at rrp £3.99.

Why Local Food Culture Makes Travel Dining Benefits More Valuable

Discover why travel dining benefits work best when they reflect local food culture, dietary needs and authentic regional cuisine, according to Dragonpass.

Food is one of the highlights of travelling, whether you're exploring a new city, waiting for a connecting flight or simply grabbing a quick bite before boarding. 

Yet while many travel loyalty programmes promote airport dining as a major perk, the best ones do far more than simply offer discounts – they understand what travellers actually want to eat.

According to global travel and lifestyle benefits platform Dragonpass, which serves more than 45 million members worldwide, dining benefits should reflect the culture, customs and dietary needs of the destination rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.

It's an idea that makes perfect sense. A meal that suits one traveller perfectly could be completely unsuitable for another if religious requirements, dietary preferences or local eating habits haven't been considered.

Dragonpass has highlighted five destinations that demonstrate why local food culture matters.

In Dubai, where halal food is central to everyday life, travellers benefit from clear information and partnerships with restaurants that make suitable choices obvious. At busy airports, this can save valuable time and remove uncertainty.

Meanwhile, Delhi showcases the importance of meaningful vegetarian dining. India has one of the world's richest vegetarian food cultures, and offering just one token meat-free option is unlikely to satisfy either local residents or international visitors. A wider variety of thoughtfully prepared vegetarian dishes creates a much better experience.

Timing is equally important in Madrid, where lunch and dinner are traditionally served much later than in many other European destinations. Dining offers restricted to earlier meal times may leave travellers unable to make use of their benefits. Flexibility can make all the difference.

In Los Angeles, many diners actively seek meals that fit their lifestyle, whether that's plant-based, gluten-conscious, high-protein or lower in sugar. Clear nutritional information and a broader choice of healthier options help travellers find meals that match their preferences.

Finally, Singapore reminds us that food is an essential part of the travel experience itself. The city's vibrant mix of Chinese, Malay, Indian and Peranakan cuisines offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy authentic local flavours before they even leave the airport. 

Loyalty programmes that include local restaurants alongside international brands can help travellers end their trip with one last memorable taste of their destination.

Ultimately, good food is about more than satisfying hunger. Whether someone is looking for halal cuisine, vegetarian dishes, healthier options or authentic local flavours, the most valuable travel benefits are those that remove uncertainty and celebrate the unique food culture of each destination.

For travellers, that thoughtful approach can turn an ordinary airport meal into another enjoyable part of the journey.

Dragonpass.com