Planks Kitchen

If you ever find yourself in Preston and craving a fresh, vibrant, and health-forward bite, Planks Kitchen is a name worth bookmarking. Tucked away on Garstang Road, this cozy yet modern café has carved out a niche for itself by serving up organic, wholesome dishes without compromising on taste. Whether you're a die-hard smoothie bowl enthusiast or just looking for a satisfying lunch spot with plant-based options, Planks Kitchen truly delivers on all fronts.

Walking in, you're greeted by a clean, minimalist design with a warm, rustic twist-think wooden accents, soft lighting, and a casual-chic vibe that makes it equally perfect for catching up with friends or flying solo with your laptop and an oat latte. The outdoor seating area is a lovely touch too, especially on those rare sunny days in the UK.

Now let’s talk about the menu-because that’s where Planks Kitchen really shines. They’ve clearly taken the time to curate a menu that caters to diverse dietary needs, offering a wide array of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, without sacrificing flavor or creativity. One standout dish is the Avocado on Toast with Poached Egg-it sounds simple, but the execution here is next level. The avo is perfectly smashed with a hint of citrus, the egg is silky and runny, and the sourdough it’s perched on has just the right amount of crunch. For those looking to amp it up, the version with smoked salmon is equally divine.

Another crowd-pleaser is the Planks Breakfast Bowl (Ve GF)-a beautifully plated mix of grilled veggies, quinoa, smashed avo, and a generous dollop of hummus. It's light yet filling, ideal if you're into clean eating or just want to feel good after a meal. The Planks Granola Bowl is also a must-try if you're leaning towards something sweet but healthy. It's topped with seasonal fruits, crunchy homemade granola, and a smooth plant-based yogurt that adds just the right amount of tang.

For a midday option, the Salmon and Cream Cheese Bagel hits that sweet spot between indulgent and balanced. Freshly toasted bagel, generous spread of cream cheese, and the salmon? Silky, salty, and melt-in-your-mouth good. Pair that with a Berry Bliss Smoothie or a cup from their great tea selection, and you’re golden.

If you're after something more deli-style, the Deli Plate or the Italian Kitchen Platter gives you a curated selection of small bites that are ideal for sharing-or not, if you’re feeling greedy (no judgment). The Halloumi and Fattoush Salad Wrap is another gem that combines texture and flavor beautifully: crispy halloumi, zingy sumac-spiced salad, all wrapped in a soft, fresh flatbread.

What sets Planks Kitchen apart isn’t just its focus on health-conscious, high-quality ingredients-it’s the attention to detail in both presentation and service. The staff are friendly and attentive without being overbearing, and they clearly know the menu well. Whether you’re ordering a Chicken and Mayonnaise Wrap, a Feta Salad, or just stopping by for a quick coffee, the consistency in quality is impressive.

Accessibility is also clearly a priority here. The café offers wheelchair-accessible entrances, seating, toilets, and a car park, which is not something you can say for every restaurant in the area. It’s a small touch, but one that makes a big difference for many guests.

And let's not overlook the drinks menu. Their coffee game is strong, and the free water refills are a nice bonus for anyone sticking around for a while. If you’re a tea lover, you’ll appreciate their selection of loose-leaf and herbal options. And if you’re in the mood for something refreshing, their freshly pressed juice bar has your back-everything from green detox blends to vibrant berry mixes.

No delivery service might be a downside for some, but honestly, this place is worth the trip. The on-site services, takeaway options, and well-thought-out dine-in experience more than make up for it. It’s the kind of place that turns a quick bite into a memorable moment-without the fuss or the food coma.