Amazingly friendly man who was so kind to my son who was getting bread for fishing bait.

Sweet little spot that serves traditional tea in a cozy room. Service was friendly and guests were history buffs. Conversation with local gentleman who had nice things to say about US Air Force during WW II. One catch, cash only. Owner was so kind once we realized had left passports and cash in London. Highly recommend ordering the meal as the dinner at next table with peas was definitely home cooked and smelled amazing. read more

They have a great variety of products with friendly service. I haven't been in here for ages but their Viennese choc dipped fingers are great! read more

Make fab toast for hungry mornings, friendly service too.

Good food but I have to say the lady who served me had a right moan about the state of the world. Not what I want with my Chelsea bun!

We love this place! It is like a trip into the past, a marvellous traditional English teashop and bakery, serving the best bread I have ever tasted. Wherever we eat in Newbury we always know when the bread comes from the Empire! We had our wedding reception in the Upper Crust (upstairs floor) and the buffet food was marvellous. We go in regularly and are always charmed by the proprietress, who is warm and friendly and very community-oriented. My husband is 60 now and has been going into the Empire since he was a boy at school at St Barts and he still loves the cakes. I feel a great deal of love and respect for this place. It is a traditional part of the heart of Newbury. read more

This cafe and bakery is one of the oldest and best in town. They do a great breakfast and lunch and bake on the premises. Try their rye bread - really tasty. Very friendly and helpful staff. This cafe and bakery has been going for years and is still bakes the best bread in Newbury. read more