Fresco Cafe & Eatery

39-41 Merrial St, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Newcastle ST5 2AE, United Kingdom
$$$ Cafe
(35 Reviews)
Price Range £10–20

Fresco Cafe & Eatery sits comfortably on Merrial Street in Newcastle-under-Lyme, offering a casual spot that blends the approachable vibe of a neighbourhood café with some hearty, well-executed dishes. This is the kind of place where locals might drop in for a weekend brunch or a mid-morning coffee, especially if they’re after a warm, welcoming environment without the rush of busier high street options.

The atmosphere at Fresco is cozy and unpretentious, with the feeling of a spot where regulars chat over Americano coffees or Earl Grey tea lattes, while the occasional aroma of freshly baked carrot cake and tiramisu hints at the kitchen’s care in the smaller details. It works well for small groups, families, or anyone looking for a relaxed meal without fuss.

Menu highlights suggest a comfortable mix of café favourites and light meals. The avocado toast and English breakfast appeal to those after a filling start to the day, while sandwich options – from smoked salmon bagels to a more indulgent Fresco Chicken Club – offer satisfying lunches. The portions, as customers note, are generous enough that sharing could be a smart move, making it fit for casual catch-ups or even stopping in with a hungry teenager.

Beyond coffee and brunch, Fresco’s inclusion of some Polish-inspired dishes alongside classics like spaghetti Bolognese adds a subtle nod to local tastes and diversity, which lends the menu an authentic, homey feel. The cake display makes a tempting stop for anyone needing a sweet lift mid-afternoon, although the vibe stays relaxed rather than formal, making it easy to linger without pressure.

The café draws a mixed crowd—families, workers on break, and local residents who appreciate straightforward, quality food paired with friendly service. Mornings through early afternoons seem best to experience Fresco at its liveliest, with the warmth of the rooms giving a comfortable refuge on cooler days.

In summary, Fresco Cafe & Eatery offers a dependable place for breakfast, brunch, and casual lunch in Newcastle-under-Lyme, with a homey atmosphere and menu that caters well to those wanting authentic, freshly made food without pretence.

Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
What they serve
Coffee
Quick bite
Vegetarian options
Best for
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Tuesday

09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Wednesday

09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Thursday

09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Friday

09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Saturday

09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Sunday

09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

35 Reviews
Julie Dobbin

03 Jan 2026

Absolutely beautiful little cafe, food amazing and freshly made, best club sandwich and my daughter had the meatball sandwich. We could have shared, great portion size, highly recommended, we”ll definitely be back

Bertie Y

11 Nov 2025

Thoroughly enjoyable and filling English breakfast with quality ingredients. The sausages were top notch. We also had the Polish sausage with chips... Quality! The pastries and cakes looked great too but was too full... Maybe next time!

Emma Hewitt

01 Nov 2025

I would highly recommend Fresco, its just what we need in Castle. Went for the first time today and the food was incredible. Feels like proper authentic dishes, in a very cozy environment. I had the day's special which was Chicken and pesto bruschetta and it was so flavourful and a great portion size. I can't wait to try more of the menu.

Asmaa Hussein

26 Oct 2025

Nice place for breakfast or brunch. Freshly baked cakes and lovely atmosphere Will visit the place again

Rob Simpson

06 Oct 2025

Great Cafe in Newcastle with lovely staff and a warm cosy atmosphere. Full breakfasts are delicious with a few Polish home dishes served also, prices are good and the cakes on display..well if you're on a diet don't look. Well worth a visit. Highly recommended.

Jan Rodziewicz

01 Oct 2025

Very welcoming and absolutely delicious food. Have been to sit in and eat with friends and everyone was over the moon with how well presented and welcoming the establishment is. It’s very cosy and relaxing atmosphere. In my opinion by far the best place to eat in the area. Also ordered food for collection and it never fails. The food is clearly cooked with love and a passion for food and others enjoying it . If you haven’t been you must try it , you won’t be disappointed . If I could give ten stars for everything I would , it’s that good ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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