Trove

A neglected suburban high street might not seem the most obvious location for a family-run bakery and café, but it’s Levenshulme where Trove has made its home. Owners Katy and Marcus opened back in 2011 and the demand for their varied selection of breads has increased ever since. Saturdays are your best bet for getting a loaf fresh out the oven, and there’s plenty to choose from, with specials changing every week: their white bloomer is perfect for bacon sarnies at the weekend, while the rye and molasses is delicious toasted and slathered with peanut butter.

Weekend mornings are packed: bohemian mums and barely-walking toddlers gather around the communal table, while couples and friends sooth hangovers with carefully constructed breakfasts. Most brunch options are accompanied by massive slabs of toast: the eggs benedict with a perfectly made hollandaise is a bargain at just £6. There’s seasonal specials too, from nasi goreng (prawns, rice and fried egg) to rhubarb and coconut bircher muesli (£4.50).

If you’re the kind of person who can’t fathom breakfast post-11am, there’s an excellent selection of sandwiches – all under £4 – including brie and bacon or organic cheddar and caribbean pickle on a malted and seeded loaf. Grab a slice of their treacly-rich millionaire’s shortbread, washed down with a well-made flat white in the afternoon.

Like everything Trove touches, coffee isn’t an afterthought – they use Has Bean in their machine and also stock local Mancunian roasters, Passion Fruit. Homemade cordials and organic juices are great for children, and glugged by the gallon in summer months. Weekend nights sees the kitchen close at 4pm and re-open at 6pm for BYO pizza nights. There’s an untraditional menu of toppings, usually with one or two vegan choices.

Far trendier and with much less grit than its A6 location, Trove is a casual and cared-for café that’s worth taking a detour for, especially if value for money is your quest.