I recently visited The Daffodil restaurant in the heart of Montpelier, Cheltenham for a performance by The Ben Thomas Trio. The Daffodil is certainly a unique venue – formerly an art-deco style picture house, opened in the 1920’s. Following an extensive restoration by Mark Stephens in the late 90s, The Daffodil was brought back to its former vibrant glory as a stylish restaurant and venue.
The music was beautiful and atmospheric, and filled the bustling dining room, as I watched from the luxurious Circle Bar (positioned on the former balcony, with a fantastic view of the band). Before me, delicious dishes were served by attentive staff and high Afternoon Teas demolished.
Being enveloped in the mood of the place, I decided on a ‘Breakfast Club’ Cocktail. The name intrigued me and the quirky ingredients – Marmalade Vodka and Cotswold Marmalade. I had a lovely surprise when the cocktail arrived served in a marmalade jar, complete with chequered linen. Absolutely sumptuous!
Following a fresh and contemporary set from the trio, (featuring pianist Alex Steele and guitarist Mark Lawrence’, I finished the afternoon with a rich and smooth coffee. I was very with the beautifully blended Brazilian and Columbian mix), was just what I needed. The coffee can also be bought in the newly opened attached deli ‘ The Chef’s Pantry’, where plenty of tongue tingling nibbles can be found, including my sneaky treat – handcrafted, fragrant peppermint marshmallows. I would definitely recommend visiting this venue.
Live Jazz nights are regularly held on Monday Nights and Saturday lunchtimes.
(Blog title taken from an informative Oxford University article)



