Food and drink news for the discerning consumer
Thursday, 4 December 2025
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That's Food and Drink: Why Toby Carvery Continues to Win Over British Din...
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Why Toby Carvery Continues to Win Over British Diners. And How an Unexpected Visit Reminded Us Why
Discover what makes Toby Carvery a beloved British dining staple, with a personal story about finding comfort in a freshly cooked breakfast on a difficult day.
Toby Carvery has become something of a national institution. Whether it’s the promise of a reliably hearty roast, generous portions, or value for money, it’s one of those chains many of us have quietly incorporated into our everyday lives.But sometimes, it’s the unexpected moments that remind you exactly why places like Toby Carvery remain so well-loved.
Recently, my wife and I had to attend a funeral. Public transport wasn’t on our side that day, so we ended up arriving nearly three hours early. Cold, tired and with time to fill, we wandered around to see what was open nearby. To our genuine relief, a Toby Carvery stood just down the road.
We decided to step inside for breakfast, and it turned out to be exactly what we needed. It was busy with a wide mixture of families, couples and business people all happily munching away and chatting, clearly enjoying their endless breakfasts!
What we found wasn’t simply a standard chain breakfast; it was properly good. The food was freshly cooked, the bacon crisp without being dry, the eggs perfectly done, and the hash browns golden and moreish.
And the coffee, often an afterthought in many places, was surprisingly excellent. Smooth, hot, and noticeably superior in quality, it felt like someone had actually taken care over it rather than just pressing a button on a machine.
In a moment where everything else was stressful and rushed, Toby Carvery offered a sense of normality and a quiet place to breathe.
And that’s something chains often don’t get enough credit for, being reliably decent when you actually need them most.
Why Toby Carvery Still Works
1. Reliability and Comfort Food
Customers know exactly what they’re going to get: a proper roast, familiar flavours, and generous portions. It’s dependable, and that’s part of its charm.
2. Surprisingly Good Breakfasts
Toby Carvery’s breakfast menu often flies under the radar but deserves more attention. Freshly cooked items, the option to build your own plate, and unlimited refills on hot drinks make it a solid value choice.
3. Great for Families
Spacious seating, no fuss dining, and menus that cater to all ages make it a favourite for families across the UK.
4. Affordable Treats
In a time when eating out can easily break the bank, Toby Carvery remains one of the more budget-friendly options without compromising on quality.
5. Friendly Service
Our recent experience reflected something many regulars already know: Toby staff are often warm, helpful, and keen to make sure you leave happy.
A Quiet Staple of British Dining
Toby Carvery may not be flashy, but it doesn’t need to be. It occupies a particular space in UK dining culture — affordable, comforting, familiar, and consistent.
Whether you’re popping in for a Sunday roast, grabbing a mid-week meal, or, like us, seeking out a warm place on a difficult day, it invariably delivers what you’re hoping for.
Sometimes the best food experiences aren’t about fanfare but about feeling looked after. And on that morning, with a delicious breakfast and superior coffee in front of us, Toby Carvery did exactly that.
And don't forget! They are taking Christmas bookings. And it turns out there's a Toby Carvery not far from our home, too!
Wednesday, 3 December 2025
Holding Inclusive Parties for International Day of Persons with Disabilities
It’s a day designed to raise awareness, champion accessibility, and celebrate the contributions of disabled people in every corner of society.
One of the most meaningful, and enjoyable, ways to mark the occasion is by hosting an inclusive party or community gathering.
Whether you are planning a workplace event, a school celebration, a festive-season get-together, or a neighbourhood social, here’s how to create a welcoming space where everyone can participate and feel valued.
Why Mark the Day with a Party?
A party may seem light-hearted, but it’s actually a powerful way to bring people together, start conversations, and build a sense of belonging. Celebrations help shift the narrative from focusing solely on challenges to highlighting creativity, achievement, identity, and community pride.
Many organisations also use IDPD gatherings to:
Promote disability inclusion policies
Fundraise for disability charities
Showcase local talent
Hold staff or volunteer appreciation events
Provide a relaxed environment for connecting and learning
And because the day falls in the run-up to Christmas, it fits beautifully into the season of goodwill.
Planning an Inclusive Event: Practical Tips
1. Choose an Accessible Venue
Look for a location that offers clear step-free access, accessible toilets, wide doorways, and good circulation space. If you’re using a community hall or workplace space, walk the route as if you were a wheelchair user or someone with limited mobility. Small details make a big difference.
2. Provide Clear, Easy-to-Find Information
Send invitations that include:
Access arrangements
Parking and drop-off information
Any sensory considerations
The schedule, including quiet times or optional breaks
Offer digital, print, and Easy Read formats if possible.
3. Create a Welcoming Sensory Environment
Not everyone enjoys loud music, flashing lights, or crowded rooms. Build in:
Low-sensory or quiet spaces
Steady lighting
Volume-controlled music
Clear signage
This helps neurodivergent guests, people with sensory sensitivities, and anyone who prefers a calmer setting.
4. Provide Inclusive Food and Drink
Offer options that cover common allergies and dietary needs: dairy-free, gluten-free, vegetarian, halal, and soft-drink choices. Labelling food clearly is always appreciated.
5. Make Activities Accessible to All
Think about the range of abilities in the room. Good options include:
Craft stations
Quiz rounds
Seated games
Photo booths
Storytelling or poetry
Gentle discos
Festive card-making
Community awards
Avoid activities that require quick reflexes, loud responses, or complex movement unless you can adapt them.
Ideas for Themed Parties
Festive Tea or Coffee Afternoon
A cosy social event is often easier to manage accessibly. Add Christmas biscuits, a charity raffle, or a mini market featuring local disabled makers.
Creative Christmas Workshop
From wreath-making to card-printing, hands-on creative sessions are brilliant for mixed-ability groups.
Talent Showcase
Celebrate disabled artists, musicians, or performers from your community. Offer relaxed-performance guidance so guests know they can move around, make noise, or take breaks.
Workplace Inclusion Party
A lunch-hour event with short talks, displays, or accessibility demonstrations helps staff learn while enjoying the social atmosphere.
Celebrate, Empower, and Connect
Marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities with a party sends a clear message: inclusion is something to celebrate, not something to whisper about. It encourages confidence, visibility, and community strength, all while giving people the chance to enjoy a warm, uplifting moment together during the winter season.
It’s a reminder that when we remove barriers, everyone benefits.
Tuesday, 2 December 2025
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