The Engine Shed Cafe

This review appears in the The List's Eating & Drinking Guide 2008 – in the shops now or buy online.

The Engine Shed has the delicious privilege of taking ethical business to a higher, smarter level. It was founded on a principle of truly equal opportunities by employing trainees with learning difficulties, but the quality of the food is even better than the charitable intentions. It operates as a lunchtime canteen, and the choices are changed daily with varied, if not always adventurous, hot dishes offering very good value. Staples such as quiches and salads are joined by casseroles and rice, with vegan options aplenty, even among the stickily delicious cakes. The atmosphere is family-friendly – a light and airy upper floor is adorned with pictures and wooden tables, and there tend to be several toddlers around. Also on sale are home-made tofu and bread, made on-site by the trainees using the fresh, organic produce that is a signature feature of the Engine Shed. Currently there is an all-day vegetarian breakfast on Saturdays, when the trainees are given a day off, and the café has a more mainstream feel. There is a chance this goldmine could be forced to focus on finance over ethics one day – let's just hope it retains its role as a jewel in the vegetarian crown.

• High point: Relaxed little lunchtime haven
• Low point: Limited opening hours