Folk Cafe Bar

The Boho Oasis

Please note that Deli on Burton Road is now known as "FOLK"

7-11 to Bistro Café

Since taking over the business three years ago, Justin Parkinson has overseen Deli on Burton Road develop into a laid-back bistro café in a becoming and homely setting with a carefully considered menu and drinks-list.

Formerly a Polish delicatessen, Justin’s first purchase was a coffee machine and the Deli’s transition began.

“It just snowballed from there really and it’s developed sort of organically ever since. In the first summer I put some tables up outside and I’d hardly finished before people started asking if they could sit down.”

Now serving breakfasts, lunches, dinners and offering a concise but discerning selection of wines and bottled beers, Deli on Burton Road has come to fill a niche amongst the restaurants and watering holes of West Didsbury with its unique and comfortable position, a kind of tea-shop / bar / restaurant medley.

The relaxed environment distinguishes Deli from the more formal establishments nearby and is one of the reasons for its broad appeal, with no need to get dressed up and no minimum orders whilst still being able to eat and drink out.

“It’s just a good place to hang out really. Allsorts of people come in for things they need from the deli or to have a sit down. Some come in for a quick lunch and others stay all afternoon with one coffee. It’s a friendly atmosphere here so there’s no rush or bother.”

Laid-back Ambience

The current set up retains a small deli counter selling oils, organic produce, cheeses and meats – one of the only remaining vestiges of the old store, but is predominantly occupied by café seating with some relatively private American diner style tables at the back as well as a pleasant terraza out the front on Burton Road (with palm trees to boot).

Justin describes the somewhat ramshackle interior as having “a mix and match boho feel” – this certainly lends itself as a significant aspect in the Deli’s casual ambience and unusual charms. Even the music (which is not oppressively loud, I must add) has been chosen with care. However, in keeping with the quirky and eclectic character, expect anything from 50s Brazilian Samba music to deep Detroit House to be playing in the background.

There are no signs of slowing down with more changes planned at the Deli soon. A make-over is due for the outside area with a new sign and ambient lighting being prepared to take advantage of the attractive location in the evenings.

Party Time

As well as being a chilled and laid back location to sip a cappuccino and watch the world go, Deli on Burton Road is also becoming a real destination for events and functions. From a small and intimate gathering to a full-blown party, Deli on Burton Road can cater for any event and budget, however big or small. All you need to do is contact Annalise to discuss your requirements - and you can be sure that however eclectic they are, the Deli team will do everything they can to meet your needs!

Deli on Burton Road, if anywhere, is the place to pull this trick off. Their success to date has not come about through following conventions but through care and attention to detail and by fostering a welcoming atmosphere. The Deli on Burton Road comes highly recommended to any prospective punters, be it for a whistle-stop morning snack or a lazy afternoon beer.

Words by Graham Yeo