We’re over the moon to share some exciting news with you – Floral Days Café at Hilltop is officially a finalist in the Daily Gazette’s ‘Your Favourite Café or Coffee Shop 2025’ awards! We were absolutely thrilled to be nominated, and it’s all thanks to our lovely customers. We genuinely couldn’t have done it without you.
But now we need your help once more – it’s time to vote! You can cast your vote by picking up an official voting slip at the voting booth by the café entrance. Simply fill it out and hand it to a member of our team or pop it into the voting box. There’s also a convenient drop-off station near the garden centre till if that’s easier.
You can also vote using the form printed in the daily Clacton Gazette or the Frinton and Walton Gazette. Bring it in to us and we’ll post it off for you (voting closes on the 16th May so please pop in before then if you can), or feel free to pop it in the post yourself. We’re so proud to be in the running, and with your support, we’d love to bring that award home to Hilltop!
We're serving up fresh flavours this May!
If you’ve not visited our garden centre with restaurant recently, now is the perfect time to stop by. Our Chef David and his amazing team have been working their culinary magic to bring you some delicious new seasonal specials – all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. Whether you’re catching up with friends, treating yourself after a plant shopping spree, or just fancy a lunch break in the sunshine, there’s something for everyone at Hilltop.
Roasted and flaked salmon salad with Aïoli dressing
Let’s kick off with one of our lighter and lovelier specials for this month – our roasted and flaked salmon salad. This is a perfect choice for a sunny day, featuring delicately roasted salmon, flaked and served over a bed of fresh, crunchy salad leaves. It’s finished off with a generous drizzle of our homemade aïoli dressing, bringing just the right touch of creaminess and garlic zing.
Packed with protein, omega-3s, and flavour, this is a wonderfully satisfying option whether you're dining inside or out on our patio. And like everything on our menu, it’s made with love – and lots of local produce.
Sriracha mayo chicken and spring onion sandwich
If you’re in the mood for something with a bit of a kick, our Sriracha mayo chicken and spring onion sandwich is a bold and tasty treat. Juicy chicken breast meets tangy, spicy Sriracha mayo and is balanced beautifully with a hit of fresh spring onion – all nestled in soft bread.
It’s the ideal choice if you’re after something hearty but not heavy. It comes with a delicious side salad and if you fancy an extra crunch, add a bag of crisps to your order. It's even better enjoyed in our newly opened outdoor seating area, with countryside views and a gentle breeze.
Duo of chocolate mousse and orange-infused strawberries
Now let’s talk dessert – and oh, do we have a special one for you this month! Our duo of chocolate mousse is rich, smooth and irresistibly indulgent, paired with orange-infused strawberries for a fruity burst of sunshine on the side.
This is one of those treats that makes you slow down and savour every spoonful. Whether you were planning to pop in for coffee and cake, or to treat yourself to something sweet after lunch, we promise this one’s worth every bite.
Outdoor seating is now open – and we have a dog friendly outdoor area too!
The warmer weather means it’s time to take things outside – and we’re delighted to say our outdoor patio seating area is now open! Settle in at one of our comfy garden furniture sets under a parasol, and enjoy a bite to eat while taking in the lovely views of the surrounding countryside.
Got your four-legged friend with you? No problem! We’ve created a dog-friendly area at the entrance to the café, which is undercover for comfort. Plus, our picnic tables outside are also dog-friendly, so everyone’s welcome at Hilltop – paws and all!
Kids eat for £1 – great value for families
We know that family days out can add up quickly, so we’re making things a little easier this May with our Kids Eat for £1 offer. With the purchase of any adult main meal, you can add a children’s meal for just £1 – perfect for making a trip to our garden centre and restaurant a family-friendly day out that doesn’t break the bank.
Our children’s menu is packed with favourites, from sandwiches and snacks to smaller portions of our main dishes – and, of course, there’s always ice cream to finish.
Local, fresh, and made with care
At Hilltop, we’re passionate about good food – the kind that’s made from scratch using fresh, quality ingredients. Where possible, we support local growers, producers and businesses, keeping things seasonal, sustainable, and full of flavour.
Our Chef David takes great pride in every dish, and our team is always happy to help if you have dietary needs or questions about what’s in your meal. Our menu includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, and our allergy-friendly icons make it easy to find something that works for you.
So whether you’re voting for us in the café awards, popping in to try our specials this month, or just fancy a coffee in the sunshine, we’d love to see you. We’re more than just a garden centre with café – we’re a place to relax, catch up, and enjoy good food and good company.
Thanks again for all your continued support – and don’t forget to cast your vote!
