Eat your way through charming Market Drayton, England

Once a simple bike shop, The Town House on Cheshire Street has transformed into a popular restaurant with a trendy bar, drawing crowds seeking entertainment and gastronomic delights. The chef's background in France and extensive travels led him to Market Drayton, where he opened this vibrant establishment, showcasing his culinary skills and uncommon worldview. Inside, you'll be charmed by the wood-accented rooms, featuring a piano with a transparent display of homemade liqueurs, a mosaic floor made of bottle caps, and skateboard decorations on the walls.

The menu holds delightful surprises too. Begin with their tempting popcorn chicken or golden crunchy haddock goujons, followed by mouthwatering asparagus & chickpea risotto with spinach falafel while you await a juicy steak sourced from a nearby local farm.

Lucky diners may even receive a special treat at the meal's end – a complimentary glass of the house's delectable salted caramel vodka. And make sure to visit the second-floor bar, where the talented bartenders craft signature cocktails – such as peanut butter whiskey with chocolate liqueur and vanilla foam.

Jones's Coffee House, located on High Street, is a haven for excellent coffee and scrumptious food, made with the freshest local ingredients. In the past, they grew veggies and herbs on the nearby farm, but the fortunate positioning of the south-facing slope and gravel soils sparked the idea of venturing into winemaking. Today, you can enjoy their exquisite produce, like the renowned Jone's Vineyard Colehurst Dry Wine Shropshire 2018, a favorite among wine enthusiasts.

At Jones's Coffee House, you'll be treated to homemade soups, hot paninis and ciabattas, both cold and toasted sandwiches, and comforting jacket potatoes. They normally serve Lavazza Super Oro bar blend for their espresso coffee.

Right next door, you'll find Jones's Pizza House, where you can explore an impressive wine collection and even grab a tasting box with bottles from various years, including their special handmade sparkling wines produced in the traditional method. So whether you're in the mood for a cozy coffee break or a delightful wine tasting, Jones's Coffee & Pizza House is a perfect choice.

Discover a hidden treasure of Indian cuisine in the heart of the English countryside – Pickles Restaurant. This modern venue stands out with its sleek black matte façade among the historic red brick mansions on the town's central street. Step inside, and you'll find an equally extravagant interior – black leather furniture, metallic bar counter, and walls adorned with 3D panels illuminated by neon lights.

Despite its offbeat decor, Pickles stays rooted in tradition with a menu that showcases a diverse range of curries, chutneys, and their famous lentil flour papadums. Take a bite of their delightful cheese garlic naans, a must-have accompaniment to any Indian-style meal, as well as palak paneer, malai kofta, and classic chicken tikka.

And for a sweet ending, you won’t resist chocolate pudding, perfect for taking away and enjoying on a cozy bench beneath a tree. A unique feature of Pickles is that they allow guests to bring their own bottle of wine or beer for lunch, making it even more special. Plus, they're known for their swift food delivery service throughout the town.

In the picturesque village of Norton-in-Hales, just a short distance from town, you'll find The Hinds Head – a lively combination of a top-notch restaurant and a countryside pub. The stand-alone building exudes a rustic charm, adorned with a family sign and vibrant flower-filled planters during the sunny months, making it an ideal spot after a leisurely stroll.

When hunger strikes, The Hinds Head will meet you with their farm-to-table cuisine, perfectly complemented by England's finest cask ale. Enjoy a refreshing pint alongside their signature roasts, such as flavorful Staffordshire turkey with sausage and sage & onion stuffing, or tender slow-cooked Shropshire top side of free-range beef served with Yorkshire pudding.

The dessert menu is equally tempting, boasting all-time favorites like sticky toffee pudding and salted caramel cheesecake, guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings. And as a perfect end to your meal, treat yourself to their robust double espresso, renowned for its exceptional taste and strength. Before you leave, be sure to take a bottle of ale with you for the journey home.

Market Drayton is an ideal getaway for a relaxed weekend, away from the city's hustle and bustle. Here, time seems to flow differently, and even busy Londoners find themselves embracing a slower pace, with a newfound appreciation for authentic English cuisine and scenery. Don't forget to bookmark this guide, and when you have the chance to visit the charming town of Market Drayton, make the most of it.