Nestled in the charming historic streets of Bristol Borough, Pennsylvania, a crisp Fall afternoon in mid-November offered the perfect setting for exploration. As a Bucks County local, I’ve often overlooked Bristol, save for occasional library visits. However, recent buzz on social media about its independent businesses sparked my curiosity, particularly around a few establishments that promised unique experiences. Craving comfort and warmth as the days grew colder, I embarked on a journey to Bristol Borough with my mom, seeking to uncover its hidden gems and embrace the approaching holiday spirit.
A short drive from Yardley brought us to Bristol Borough, where parking was easily found in the municipal lot behind Mill Street’s inviting storefronts. Our quest for warmth began, leading us first to Spice & Co., but the anticipation for a truly comforting experience centered around the flavors and atmosphere promised by Mill Street Cantina, a local eatery gaining significant attention.
Mill Street Cantina: A Culinary Gem in Historic Bristol
Mill Street Cantina Storefront
Our anticipation peaked as we approached Mill Street Cantina, located at 101 Mill Street, right next to the Bristol Riverside Theatre. Even from the outside, the menu hinted at a culinary experience beyond the ordinary, promising a warm and inviting atmosphere within. Owned and operated by Chef Tim McGinty, Mill Street Cantina is not just a restaurant; it’s a testament to his passion for high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients and innovative Mexican cuisine, infused with his classical training in Italian and French techniques. This unique blend creates a dining experience that stands out in Bucks County and beyond.
Stepping inside Mill Street Cantina, we were immediately greeted by Leah’s infectious smile, a long-time employee whose cheerful demeanor perfectly complemented the vibrant Mexican décor. The restaurant, cozy with seating for about 55 guests, exudes an energetic yet welcoming vibe. It’s a popular spot, often bustling with locals and visitors alike, and during warmer months, the allure of outdoor seating, even for dog owners, adds to its charm. Mill Street Cantina isn’t just for lunch or dinner; their weekend brunch is a local favorite, featuring creative dishes like chicken and waffles, diverse benedicts, and their signature stuffed torrejas – a brioche French toast filled with homemade Farmers Cheese. However, they are perhaps most celebrated as the “Best of Bucks” for their exceptional house-made margaritas, with popular flavors like blood orange and pineapple leading the charge.
Cantina Waffle
I had the pleasure of speaking with Chef McGinty, who has dedicated 11 years to his culinary career. His passion for Mill Street Cantina and the community it serves was palpable. He spoke of his commitment to creating dishes where the quality of ingredients shines through, not masked by heavy sauces or preparations. Everything at Mill Street Cantina, from their tangy sour mix for margaritas to their soft, flavorful tortillas, is made in-house using locally-sourced products whenever possible. This dedication extends to butchering their own meats and crafting chorizo to order, ensuring freshness and unparalleled flavor. Chef McGinty believes in transparency and quality, acknowledging that diners are increasingly conscious about the origin and preparation of their food. At Mill Street Cantina, guests can dine with confidence, knowing each dish is crafted with care, quality, and a commitment to supporting the local economy and agriculture.
Mill Street Cantina transcends being just a restaurant; it’s a place of belonging. Before visiting, my knowledge was limited to its reputation for Mexican cuisine, a shared favorite with my mom. But the experience revealed so much more. It’s an establishment that welcomes everyone, regardless of background or day’s events. Chef McGinty and his team open their doors wide, offering not just sustenance but a sense of community and appreciation. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor exploring Bristol Borough, Mill Street Cantina promises a warm welcome and a memorable dining experience.
Location – 101 Mill Street, Bristol, PA
Hours of Operation – Monday-Friday: 11am-2am; Saturday/Sunday, 10am-2am.; Happy Hour: 5-7pm, daily
Phone Number – (215) 788-0969
Website – themillstreetcantina.com
Exploring More of Mill Street: Spice & Co. and Calm Waters Coffee Roasters
Before immersing ourselves in the flavors of Mill Street Cantina, our Bristol Borough adventure began at Spice & Co.
Spice & Co. Christmas Display
Located centrally on Mill Street, Spice & Co. is instantly recognizable by its charming black awning and equally captivating interior. This delightful shop offers a curated selection of items, ranging from well-known coffee brands to unique, lesser-known finds, all beautifully displayed. Spread across two floors, Spice & Co. feels like a treasure trove, inviting exploration in every corner. Unlike typical chain stores, the shop is meticulously organized, with each item perfectly placed, encouraging touch, discovery, and purchase.
Co-owned by interior decorator Mycle James Gorman, Spice & Co. showcases hand-selected items reflecting his refined taste and preferences. The personal touch is evident throughout the store. A conversation with a long-tenured employee, who has been with Spice & Co. since its 2013 opening, revealed popular items such as Mill Farm spices, a rotating selection of candies, diverse teas, gourmet sauces, olive oils, and a variety of coffees. The décor is ever-evolving, offering something new with each visit. It’s a beloved local destination for unique Christmas gifts, with a particular favorite being license plates featuring Bristol Borough’s founding year, 1681 – a highly sought-after item during the holiday season. Our visit to Spice & Co. left us feeling warm and enchanted, a promising start to our Bristol Borough exploration.
Location – 131 Mill Street, Bristol, PA
Hours of Operation – Monday-Thursday: 10am-6pm, Saturday: 10am-7pm & Sunday: 11am-6pm.
Phone Number – (215) 919-7723
Continuing our Mill Street journey, a short walk led us to Calm Waters Coffee Roasters.
Calm Waters Coffee Storefront
Calm Waters Coffee Roasters, a popular café and coffee-roasting business, has cultivated a loyal following since its arrival in Bristol Borough. Their commitment to on-site roasting and community engagement is evident, especially through their active social media presence. The inviting storefront beckoned us in, and we quickly crossed the street to experience it firsthand. The atmosphere inside was peaceful and relaxed, true to their name.
Owned by husband-and-wife team Andrew and Jodi Dittman, Calm Waters Coffee Roasters at 242 Mill Street embodies their mission: “It’s more than just great coffee, it’s about taking time to appreciate the good things in life, loving thy neighbor and growing as a community.” Their coffee is the star, offering everything from classic roasts to espressos, cappuccinos, lattes, cold brews, and iced coffees. They are renowned for their latte art, crafted with precision and care – a detail my mom experienced with her seasonal Fall Spice Latte, which was both beautiful and delightfully warming with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. Beyond coffee, Calm Waters also offers teas, sparkling waters, and a selection of comforting foods like sandwiches and pastries, perfect for a chilly day. Customer favorites include the Ham & Swiss on sourdough, classic grilled cheese, muffins, and grilled pound cake.
What truly distinguishes Calm Waters Coffee Roasters is their dedication to community. They host “First Fridays” with local bands and musicians, storytelling nights, and game nights. They also showcase local art and feature customer interviews on social media, fostering a strong sense of community and appreciation. Our visit to Calm Waters Coffee Roasters was indeed a warming experience, both in body and spirit, further highlighting the welcoming nature of Bristol Borough.
Location – 242 Mill Street, Bristol, PA
Hours of Operation – Sunday-Tuesday: 7am-3pm, Wednesday-Thursday: 7am-6pm, Friday-Saturday: 7am-10pm
Phone Number – (215)781-6286
Website: calmwaterscoffee.com
Bristol Borough: A Borough of Warmth and Discovery
Reflecting on our day in Bristol Borough, it’s clear that the town offers a unique blend of historic charm and vibrant local businesses. From the curated treasures at Spice & Co. to the community-focused coffee culture at Calm Waters Coffee Roasters, each stop added to the warmth and joy of our visit. However, it was Mill Street Cantina that truly captured the essence of Bristol Borough’s welcoming spirit and culinary innovation. Our goal of seeking warmth was not only met but exceeded, as we discovered a community that embraces visitors and locals alike. Bristol Borough, with gems like Mill Street Cantina, proves to be more than just a destination; it’s a place where warmth, community, and delightful discoveries await.
