Cafe Sanjuan, a Colombian cafe in Stockport, has been praised for its authentic street food, with a £10 patacon sandwich singled out as a standout dish. The cafe, which opened in 2021, is led by owner Luis Sanjuan, who hails from Barranquilla.
A Hidden Gem in St Petersgate
Tucked within the St Petersgate area, the spot is described as unassuming both inside and out. Stencil art on the windows shows sombreros and comical burritos, alongside phrases and anecdotes like reminders that it's Colombia 'NOT Columbia'. Despite its modest appearance, the cafe offers a range of lesser-known Colombian delights, including arepa corn pancakes, despacito topped tortillas, and perico scrambled eggs with sausages.
Upon entering, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air. The menu presents a tempting array of options, from the full breakfast (£14) featuring habanero sausages, mixed beans, scrambled eggs, fried plantain, and fresh guacamole, to the patacon plantain bread sandwich and despacho tortillas.
The Patacon Sandwich Experience
When asked for a recommendation, Luis Sanjuan shrugged and said, "Picking a favourite from the menu is like picking a favourite child. I cannot do it." Together, they opted for the patacon sandwich, which comes with melted cheese, lettuce, and tomato, with a choice of ground beef, chicken, or plantain beef. The reviewer chose ground beef, noting the satisfying price point of £10.
The sandwich was described as lovely and well-presented, served with a little pot of jalapeño sauce. Luis advised mixing the sauce into the beef, giving a thumbs up to imply it's good. The reviewer agreed, noting the spice was subtle but lingering, elevating the dish. The plantain bread was likened to a soft rye bread with sweet undertones, complementing the rich, earthy taste of the beef. The whole thing was surprisingly light, not greasy, with a side of pancake and freshly-made guacamole.
A Growing Foodie Destination
During the meal, a customer waltzed in to the sounds of Colombian music, swapped jokes with Luis, and asked for 'the usual'. Another customer did much the same shortly after. It's clear that Cafe Sanjuan has found its audience, doing something different and something special.
Stockport is fast becoming a foodie haven, with Cafe Sanjuan just one of its many culinary highlights. Earlier this year, the town was chosen to host the Northern heat of the British Street Food Awards, usually reserved for Manchester, due to its rising reputation. Cafe Sanjuan is located at 27 St Petersgate, Stockport, SK1 1EB.
