Huxleys, Cafe & Brasserie — Restaurant in Cotswold District

BEWARE OF THIS PLACE!!!

Review for Café Huxleys, Chipping Campden

I visited Café Huxleys on my mum’s 69th birthday with my stepdad. We were staying nearby and wanted to explore the area, having not visited this part of the Cotswolds before. Unfortunately, our experience was deeply disappointing and concerning — particularly for anyone with food allergies, intolerances, or ethical dietary requirements.

If you have a food intolerance, allergy, or follow a vegan diet, please exercise extreme caution here.

I fancied a hot chocolate and specifically asked the senior waitress whether it was dairy-free or contained milk. She assured me that it was made only with cocoa powder and that if I chose oat milk, it would be dairy-free. On that basis, I ordered two hot chocolates (both with oat milk) and my mum ordered sparkling water.

When the younger waitress brought our drinks, a biscuit was placed on the saucer. After taking one sip of the hot chocolate, I instantly recognised the unmistakable taste of dairy — something I haven’t consumed for many years due to intolerance.

I immediately asked the young waitress whether the biscuit was dairy-free. She said she didn’t know and went to check with the owner. I witnessed him smirk, laugh slightly, and tell her that it was dairy-free. His reaction already made me uneasy, so I asked directly, “Are you sure? I’m dairy intolerant.” Only then did he quickly change his response to, “Oh yes, it’s dairy — don’t eat it!”

At that point, I called over the same senior waitress who had taken my order and asked again whether the hot chocolate was dairy-free. She looked flustered and admitted, “Oh no, it’s not dairy-free — only the oat milk is.”

Before we’d ordered drinks, I had actually spoken to the owner about whether they offered any vegan meal options, as we were considering returning later for dinner. He didn’t even make eye contact — he just smirked and bluntly said, “No,” in a dismissive tone.

Once it was clear both the owner and waitress had given me incorrect information, I told them calmly that I was extremely unhappy and would not be paying. I had specifically asked whether the drink contained dairy, and they had explicitly told me it did not.

The most troubling part of this experience wasn’t just the rudeness or dismissiveness, but the lack of responsibility around food safety. It appears they only take dietary restrictions seriously when the word “allergy” is used — not when a person says they are vegan or intolerant.

As a result, I became unwell and what should have been a lovely day celebrating my mum’s birthday was ruined.

This café needs urgent staff training around allergens, dietary awareness, and customer care. Until then, I would strongly advise others — especially those with allergies or ethical food requirements — to avoid this...

A Delightful Culinary Experience in the Heart of the Cotswolds

Nestled in the picturesque town of Chipping Campden, Huxleys Café & Brasserie offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements its historic surroundings. Housed in a 500-year-old building, the café exudes character and charm, making it an ideal spot for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable dining experience. 

The menu at Huxleys is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and British cuisines. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a light brunch, or an indulgent dinner, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Highlights include their homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and tantalizing risottos. For those with a sweet tooth, Ania’s Tiramisu is not to be missed—it’s been described as “the cherry on the cake” by delighted patrons.  

The café also boasts a charming bakery shop, offering a selection of artisan pastries, sourdough bread, and delectable baked treats made with the finest ingredients. It’s a perfect spot for a quick takeaway or a leisurely afternoon treat. 

Service at Huxleys is consistently praised for being friendly and attentive. The staff go above and beyond to ensure guests feel welcome and well-cared for, adding to the overall exceptional experience. 

Whether you’re enjoying a meal in their cozy interior or dining al fresco in the beautiful walled courtyards with views of the surrounding hills, Huxleys provides a dining experience that is both relaxing and memorable. 

Highly recommended for anyone visiting Chipping Campden—Huxleys is a true gem in...

"Huxleys: Mediterranean Vibes in the Heart of the Cotswolds" During our three-day exploration of the Cotswolds' finest spots, Huxleys in Chipping Campden provided the perfect finale to our journey. The glorious sunshine made al fresco brunch an irresistible option, and this café-brasserie caught our attention immediately with its vibrant upper terrace filled with contented diners enjoying the weather.

We were fortunate to secure a prime table overlooking the main road, positioned perfectly in the sunshine just beyond the expansive awning. The setting instantly transported us from the quintessential Cotswold village atmosphere to what felt like a sophisticated Mediterranean terrace café. This transformation was seamless and added an unexpected European charm to our dining experience.

The food matched the ambiance perfectly, with both coffee and cuisine meeting exceptional standards. The service team demonstrated professional efficiency while maintaining a warm, welcoming approach that enhanced our overall experience.

Despite being an hour's drive from our home, Huxleys has earned a spot on our list of must-return venues. We're already planning future visits with friends to share this remarkable find. It's rare to discover a place that so perfectly combines local charm with continental flair, making Huxleys a true gem in the...