Gateway Cafe

1st Layby A453, Southbound, Derby DE74 2YW, United Kingdom
$$$ Cafe
(83 Reviews)
Price Range £1–10

If you're traveling through Derby and find yourself on the A453, treat yourself to a refreshing pit stop at the Gateway Cafe. Nestled conveniently at 1st Layby A453 Southbound, this charming cafe is a warm embrace for travelers seeking hearty comfort food.

The cafe specializes in wholesome English breakfasts that are freshly cooked just as you order them. Diners rave about the "Ultimate Breakfast," boasting generous portions of perfectly cooked eggs, savory sausages, crispy bacon, and toast that’s crisped to golden perfection—making it a staple for both locals and road trippers alike. Each dish is prepared with quality ingredients, elevating breakfast from a simple meal to a memorable experience.

Customers like Michael K highlight the friendly, professional service—where the aroma of sizzling mushrooms and eggs fills the air and the chef greets you with a smile while your meal is created with care. The atmosphere is undeniably cozy and reminiscent of old-school cafes, where time seems to slow down. Visitors are welcomed as if they were regulars, regardless of whether it’s their first visit or their hundredth.

Reviewers have remarked on the unique charm found in Gateway Cafe. lotechtrucker appreciates the touch of nostalgia that this lovely cafe brings, complete with real HP and Heinz condiments available to complement your meal. It’s the perfect spot to grab a takeaway snack too—whether you fancy a cup of coffee for the road or an egg sandwich, you won't leave empty-handed!

As you savor your meal, it's evident that Gateway Cafe is committed to providing an outstanding dining experience. With friendly staff and freshly prepared dishes, this cafe is a standout stop on your journey, especially if you need a filling meal before heading up the M1 or towards the airport. So, don’t miss out on this gem.

In essence, Gateway Cafe is more than just a rest spot; it’s an experience steeped in warmth, hospitality, and delicious food. Stop by and treat your taste buds!

Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Great coffee
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Offerings
Coffee
Quick bite
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Atmosphere
Casual
Planning
Accepts reservations
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Parking
83 Reviews
Michael K

16 Sep 2025

Great food and reasonable prices. I couldn't ask for more .As I'm traveling around UK i eat English breakfast from time to time in different places and I can say that this one was one of my favorites so I took another one with me.Very friendly professional service from lady cooking everything while you wait.Highly recommended. For more pictures from my travels follow my Instagram michaelqmul

lotechtrucker

14 Sep 2025

Lovely old fashioned caff,lovely lady,very friendly,FRESH COOKED FOOD, real H.P, &HEINZ KETCHUP, PERCY PEPPER SUZY SALT! takeaway also,eggs,mushrooms etc cooked separate. ON THE HILL GOING UP TO AIRPORT AND AMAZON

Glenn Platts

20 Jul 2025

Good breakfast worth a try i have been going for years always the same

mark yates

13 Jul 2025

What a find this place was! I had the “Ultimate” breakfast, and boy was it Ulitmate!! Everything cooked freshly whilst I waited, good size portions, good quality ingredients and cooked to perfection. And reasonably priced to top it all off! There wasn’t much of an atmosphere as I’d arrived not too long before they closed, although that wasn’t apparent till I left, I wasn’t rushed to leave or served substandard food. As well as the pictured food, there was 2 rounds of buttered bread (would have been nicer toasted but that’s just personal preference) and a cup of coffee.

Martin Watts

08 Jul 2025

Brilliant place. Big portions, tasty, great value, friendly service. A must visit if you need a good feed as you head up the M1 or A453.

mark bradshaw

28 May 2025

Absolutely super. Cannot fault on anyway. Top food for good value

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