Potters Pantry in Potters Road is yet more evidence of the thriving café scene around Barnet. As time goes by, we are genuinely spoilt for choice, with so many tempting options dotted around the neighbourhood.

Potters Pantry, run by friends Jean and Gary, has a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere making it ideal for a long weekend brunch. As you can see from our pictures, on a sunny Sunday morning, we settled in with the papers and enjoyed some very tasty, freshly prepared food.

My husband went for the classic option of the Potters Breakfast, while I had the flavour-packed Benedizo – toasted sourdough with guacamole topped with chorizo, jalapeños, roasted peppers, poached egg and hollandaise sauce. Each at £10. My dish was from the Brunch Menu that also includes a few avocado dishes, bagels, veggie brunch, great sounding pancakes and baked potatoes. The Potters Breakfast was from the Breakfast Menu that has more predictable things, but includes tasty filled baguettes and lighter dishes like granola with yoghurt and fruit, dressed up porridge and toast. The drinks list is varied and our coffee (by Campbell & Syme) really hit the spot.

We could happily have stayed longer, lingering over more coffee and enjoying the relaxing playlist and winter sunshine. It’s a comfortable, friendly place. There were a few families and the younger ones were generally calm and contented, happily amusing themselves with toys at the table (a brat-free zone!).

Potters Pantry has also started doing themed pop-up evenings. Lisa Violino of Knolita Cooks has hosted a couple of Italian events, there was recently a Burns Supper, Rosy Lee Afternoon Tea, Caribbean Food Night and regular Burger Nights. These get booked quickly, so check their Facebook page for details of anything coming up and reserve your table.

Opening hours
Tuesday to Sunday: 9am to 4pm (kitchen closes at 3pm)