This relaxed vegetarian cafe hidden under Richmond Bridge is a quiet, cosy spot ideal for all occasions. The food, as well as the atmosphere, is healthy and enjoyable.

The Venue
Tucked away under Richmond Bridge, Tide Tables brings together all the charm of Richmond itself, with its proximity to the water, retro feel and link to the boating community. The ceiling is a curved vault of ancient bricks, only partially covered by wood panelling. There is even a vintage rowing boat, long and thin, hanging above the tables. At each end, a couple of couches are placed around low tables. There is a long display with pies, tarts, samosas and more tempting treats, above which hangs the long menu. You can sit outdoors under a canopy of trees - just grab a chair from the ones available and sit and watch the water flowing by as you sip your cappuccino.

The Atmosphere
Tide Tables is a vegetarian restaurant and whilst compassion, respect and peace are clearly part of their ethos, this establishment is not trying to make any converts. Relax is the imperative word at Tide Tables and its customers are well in tune with this laid back philosophy. Mums with young children, groups of female friends and older couples looking for a riverside view are all part of the regular clientele, be they vegetarians or meat-eaters. The service may be a tad too relaxed, but once you leave the bustle behind you won’t mind having to wait an extra minute. In the evening, things spice up a little as Tide Tables hosts regular live music nights.

The Food
All the food is vegetarian but Tide Tables takes the extra step and lists separately vegan and gluten-free options, which are both plentiful. Baked potatoes (£2.50 - £4.50), organic miso soup (£1.75) and bean and vegetable chilli with brown rice (£4.50) are all part of the varied offering. The latter is clearly healthy and fresh and although the consistency is a bit runny and it lacks strong flavour this is the price you pay when you get powerful nutrients rather than salt and oil. The falafel plate (£6.25) mixes large, tasty falafels with a hearty, grainy hummus. The non-smooth texture is a bonus although it could do with a bit more garlic and lemon. The bean salad that comes with it has a nice bite. The samosas (£2.25 - £5.40) are good and display a good balance of spices, while the onion bhajis (£2 - £5.20) are even better: each bhaji is a firm ball of spicy dough cooked right through. The Moroccan harissa flat bread (£4.25 - £6.50) is, instead, slightly undercooked, with the layers of dough inside giving the impression of needing some more time in the oven. The flavour of this rare dish is good though, not too spicy and indulgent because of its oily, smooth consistency.

There is a wide selection of organic savoury tarts (£4.25 - £6.50) as well. These are slightly soft as they’re not straight out of the oven, but once again this is what you get for bypassing flour treatment agents and other nasties. The desserts (£1.80 - £2.60) include cakes and slices like gluten-free chocolate brownie, carrot cake, chocolate fruit and nut slice and many more. The almond twist is very, very sweet, while the apple pie – their specialty - is fresh and zingy.

The Drink
Surprisingly, Tide Tables is licensed. They stock Fosters and Becks (£3) as well as organic blonde lager (£3.50) and Duchy Originals ale (£4.50). Even organic wine is available to order (£4.50 for a glass). Most people, though, opt for an organic juice squeezed on the spot (£2.60 - £3.15). The selection is simple and includes only orange, apple and carrot juice.

Alternatively, you can help yourself from a drink from the chiller - Fentimans, Orangina and cans from the soda are all available. The hot drinks (£1.40 - £2.35) are all made with organic dairy and soy milk. Teas and coffees are mostly fair-trade and you can choose from your usual double espresso, mocha, hot chocolate, chai latte and more. The soy hot chocolate is particularly thick and indulgent, ideal for those brisk, chilly afternoons.

The Last Word
Tide Tables is an ideal location for a relaxing retreat along the river. Miles away from the bustle of chain cafes, this quiet spot will fill you with hearty vegetarian treats while allowing you to indulge in an afternoon – or an hour – away from it all.

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