Bread and Butter Bistro started as another coffee shop, but man or man, how this place has evolved. Lisa Taylor is the owner, and over the short time it has been open, she has let her creative drive loose. The result is a comfortable place where the coffee is excellent, but that is just the beginning of what you will find here.
I think you will love the long wooden tables, big, cozy couch, art on the walls, and the enticing glass case that is filled with homemade pies, cakes, cookies, and if you are as lucky as I was, house-made pizza. The whole thing comes off as a bit rustic, warm, and welcoming, but still smart. Some exposed brick walls and wood plank ceiling go a long way to giving this place the very cool the vibe it has.
This bistro is all about breakfast and lunch, so it closes at 2 p.m. On the day of my visit, the glass case was loaded with homemade rolls, Danishes, cinnamon rolls, pies, and the pizza—all freshly made that morning and looking as enticing as possible. I did sample a slice of pie. I am pretty sure it was Mississippi mud, and it was simply divine, gooey, rich, and gone before I left town.
Bestsellers include a fantastic crab cake BLT, a quiche, beignets, and a great burger loaded with bacon jam and two kinds of cheese. There are a handful of Southern classics on the menu that I think you will enjoy, too, including pimento and cheese, chicken salad, grilled cheese, peanut butter and jelly, sweet potato fries, and homemade chips. There is also an egg and olive salad. That was new for me, but I loved the combination.
The daily specials are worth a good look as well, remembering everything is made from scratch and daily. Past specials include Philly cheesesteak; another Southern specialty, fried bologna sandwiches; lobster and crab bisque with a grilled cheese sandwich; and shrimp and grits casserole.
The food is exceptionally good at the Bread and Butter Bistro, with its emphasis on freshness and quality ingredients. But, to tell you the truth, I was entranced by the hometown ambiance. I am not sure I have ever found a better spot to people watch and meet a few locals, if you are so inclined, in such a comfortable environment. There is also a friendly dog who will greet you, and, as long as you are not wearing a hat (which I was), he is as friendly as can be.
You will find the staff friendly and genuinely glad to see you, you’ll be greeted with a smile, and great food. If you are passing through Batesville, and feel the need for a pleasant pause in your travels, coffee, and good food, this is the spot.
129 Public Square, Batesville
662.267.1497
Open Tuesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
