The first Saturday of December is dedicated to recognising and supporting small, local businesses. At first glance, you might miss the hidden treasures that Loughborough has to offer. However, it is full of amazing small businesses that are definitely worth trying whilst you’re in town.

We spoke to some recent graduates to find out what their favourite local businesses were and why.

Party Pieces Coffee House, Market Street

‘‘This is one of the best places to go for a quick bite to eat in Loughborough and it’s really cheap too! They have so many gorgeous cakes to choose from which means you are never stuck for choice. I’d recommend their breakfasts (which come with refillable hot drinks) or their cheese and tomato chutney paninis.’

– Grace

Photo credit: http://bit.ly/2TPqhlJ

Goodliffe’s, Churchgate

‘‘If you need somewhere to take your parents for lunch or fancy a nice homemade dinner then I would highly recommend Goodliffe’s. The menu has a large selection meals, ranging from a fish finger sandwich to rump steak, so there is definitely something for everyone!”

– Hannah

Photo credit: http://bit.ly/2PXhZtO

Sweet Life, Derby Square

‘‘This is one of my favourite places to go for dessert. There is so much to choose from, for example; waffles and crepes with lots of different toppings, milkshakes, cookie dough and ice cream. I feel like it’s pretty reasonably priced for the amount of food you get!”

– Megan

Photo credit: http://bit.ly/2E0MPv3  Link to featured image: http://bit.ly/2Qv2rNa

The Deli at Fifty-Eight, Wards End

‘‘This shop is a hidden gem. Stocked full of fresh artisan breads, chutneys, cheeses and charcuterie, it is great if you want to spend that little bit extra on quality food. The shop does hot food to take away, including delicious toasties made fresh to order with their own ingredients. I had one recently and it was one of the best toasties I have had in a while.”

– Grace

Photo credit: http://bit.ly/2TPClU7

Chocolate Alchemy, Churchgate Mews

‘‘Founded by Loughborough alumni, Ricky Soos and Lisa Dobriskey, if you fancy something sweet this is definitely the place for you. It is reasonably priced and the homemade chocolate is delicious. I booked the Afternoon Tea as a birthday present for a friend at £9.95 per person and for the amount of food you get and the quality, I would definitely say it is worth it.”

– Sammie

Photo credit: http://bit.ly/2RhLGT7

Fifty-Three, Wards End

‘‘I have been here a few times and the cakes they make are to die for. They produce fresh homemade food and have over 16 different brownie flavours on offer, plus great fresh coffee. More of a take-out place than a sit-down coffee shop, but they also do freshly prepared lunches which you can have at the breakfast bar looking out onto the highstreet!”

– Grace

Photo credit: http://bit.ly/2PUH4FE

Plan Burrito, Ashby Road & Baxter Gate

‘‘This is definitely one of my go to’s in Loughborough. A burrito is perfect for any meal of the day and the best thing is that you can mix and match fillings including, meat, vegetables, rice, salsa and guacamole! With nothing on the menu over £6, you really can’t go wrong (and you can get it delivered too).”

– Megan

Sonny’s Street Food, The Rushes

‘‘I first visited Sonny’s only a year ago, under good recommendation, and I was not disappointed. Not only was everything made fresh, but it was also authentic to the Thai food I had when I visited Phuket last year. The portions are a good size and relatively cheap, along with friendly service.”

– Sammie

Take time this weekend to learn more about the local businesses in your area and to ‘shop local’ when you have the chance, as it significantly helps the local community. Plus, you never know you might find your new favourite café or restaurant!