Splendid Restaurants has transformed two former Jack & Alice wine bars to launch a new cafe and bar concept, Coluco in Tring and Thame.
Coluco Tring has just opened following refurbishment, while Thame has opened its doors with the new menu but will undergo a revamp relaunch this summer, alongside The Cookery School opening.
Both cafe bars are situated within the busy town centres; Tring on the High Street and Thame on Butter Market.
The menus span from all-day brunch to afternoon tea, through to casual dinners and drinks by night.
The all-day menu includes brunch dishes like Smoked haddock kedgeree, and Pancakes with blueberry compote and crème fraiche with coffee from local roaster, Flying Coffee Company.
A daily changing selection of cakes are fresh from the kitchen of local bakers and include vegan and gluten free options. These are also served as part of the traditional afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, scones, jam and clotted cream.
In the evenings, dishes take influence from around the world and guests can expect to find seasonally changing menus of sharing bowls best enjoyed with a drink or two, such as Prawns in gin & tonic batter, Halloumi fries and Arancini balls. Larger plates such as Burgers, Arrabiata pasta, Beef rendang, and daily specials will also be on offer.
To accompany the food, there's a curated choice of wines, craft beers, Champagnes, spirits, and classic cocktails, such as margaritas and martinis. Bookable cocktail masterclasses and wine tastings will be available for those wishing to learn the tricks of the trade from Coluco’s drinks experts.
Both venues offer private dining and bookable areas for larger groups. At Tring the basement has been transformed into a cellar bar while the second-floor drawing room has a cosy living room feel. Thame will offer an upstairs room in addition to the event space within The Cookery School.
Situated above the restaurant, The Cookery School will offer a relaxed, entertaining and educational hands-on experience. The Cookery School is the sister property to the recently launched Cookery School at The Grand Hotel in York, spearheaded by chef Rob Cottam.