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This is an interesting fry-up. This is mostly a chip shop so it's not their core activity. But chip shop chips make a really interesting difference. And you can somehow tell they don't fry a lot, there's not that greasy aura to the place.
Imagine how exciting and welcoming this neon must be on a wet winters night.
Fantastic, generous booths.
Simple condiment cluster.
I love these two-sided metal shelf/cabinet things. Like a works canteen or a New York deli in a Doris Day film.
A fantastic place in the middle of great Peak District walking country, the former Grindleford Station has become a haven for hikers and bikers - the twin bastions of the Peak District economy. With a common interest in large plates of fried food and specially designed waterproof clothing.
Great little chips, small, so there's greater proportion of surface area and therefore more friedness. Big, thick bacon and a pale egg. Sauce comes from huge communal/industrial dispensers.
They also sell magazines and maps. And everywhere is covered with handwritten signs dealing with some issue or another. Toilets, kids, coach parties, where to take your pots when you're done. The kind of non-friendly friendliness that works around here. Friendliness that depends upon a clear understanding of the rules.
This is an intriguing place. I wonder why it's called the 'astral cafe'? There are no obvious signs of tarot readings or other dimensional travel going on. Mostly just breakfasts and lunches. And there aren't a huge number of glorious design details apart from the sign outside.
The grub though is marvelous. Crunchy chips and the beans threatening to spil over the edge which always makes you feel like you've had extra portions. Dark meaty bacon all curled up and poised. And the egg has a strange volcano look to it, like the yoke might erupt if you're not careful. Very nice.
A classic condiment cluster.
Simple, clean, lovely.