THINK OF THIS ZINE AS YOUR PERSONAL TASTING MENU:
serving up stories, flavours, and the incredible people behind them. At Square, we know restaurants aren’t just about food—they’re about the sparks of creativity, the bold leaps, and the communities built along the way. So grab a seat, dive in, and meet the tastemakers, trendsetters, and trailblazers who are making every plate—and every story—worth savouring.
1. FINK’S SALT AND SWEET 70 Mountgrove Rd, Finsbury Park
2. FINK’S GILLESPIE 88 Gillespie Rd, Finsbury Park
3. FINK’S PUMP HOUSE The Pump House
4. SALTINE 11 Highbury Park
5. ALL NATIONS VEGAN HOUSE 41 Stoke Newington High St
6. FINK’S CHATS 62 Chatsworth Rd, Lower Clapton
7. PANADERA 83 Kentish Town Rd
8. PANADERA 7 Picton Pl
9. WILTON WAY DELI & WINES 63 and 67 Wilton Way
10. MAUI POKE FITZROVIA 20a Gosfield St
11. MAUI POKE HOLBORN 1 New Oxford St
12. MAUI POKE CHANCERY LANE 61 Red Lion St
13. MIKKELLER BREWPUB LONDON 37-39 Exmouth Market
14. MIKKELLER BAR LONDON 2-4 Hackney Rd
15. PAVILION COLUMBIA ROAD The Old Storehouse, 130 Columbia Rd
16. PAVILION TRUMAN BAKERY The Old Truman Brewery, 12 Dray Walk
17. PAVILION CAFE VICTORIA PARK Victoria Park, Old Ford Rd
18. BREAD AHEAD SOUTH KENSINGTON 5-7 Pelham St, South Kensington
19. BREAD AHEAD BAKERY PAVILION ROAD 249 Pavilion Rd
20. BREAD AHEAD BAKERY BOROUGH MARKET Borough Market, Cathedral St
It all started with a three-item menu and a big idea. In March 2019, Dimeji Sadiq and Saffron Mir transformed their one-bedroom flat into Vegan Shack HQ, armed with little more than passion and a mission to make plant-based fast food accessible to everyone.
Their first delivery sparked something special in Manchester, filling a gap in the city’s food scene and building a loyal following almost overnight.
Fast forward, and Vegan Shack has become the city’s go-to for vegan comfort food, growing 130% year over year. Known for bold, flavour-packed dishes like BBQloaded fries and stacked burgers, they’ve taken plant-based dining out of the niche and into the spotlight. It’s fast food, but reimagined to be delicious, approachable, and always exciting.
Square has been with them every step of the way. From simplifying kitchen workflows to making loyalty rewards a breeze, Square’s tools help Vegan Shack keep up with demand and keep customers coming back.
What began as a small kitchen experiment has grown into a movement. Vegan Shack is living proof that with enough heart and hustle, you can take a dream and turn it into something extraordinary.
When Matthew Jones set up shop at Borough Market in 2013, he had a simple mission: bring the art of artisan baking to everyone. What started as a single bakery quickly captured the hearts—and taste buds— of Londoners. With queues forming daily for their signature doughnuts and freshly baked bread, Bread Ahead became a destination for locals and food lovers from around the world.
Unfortunately, success didn’t come easy. Matthew faced early struggles, from building trust in his vision to grappling with outdated payment systems that often left customers frustrated. Switching to Square was a huge moment. With its fast, reliable payments and intuitive tools, Matthew could focus less on logistics and more on growing Bread Ahead.
And in 2014, Matthew did just that by opening the Bread Ahead Baking School, a place where he could share his passion for great bread through hands-on workshops. From Great British Baking to gluten-free essentials, the school quickly became a hit, inspiring home bakers to roll up their sleeves and get their hands in the dough.
But Bread Ahead’s journey didn’t stop there. Over the years, they’ve grown from a Borough Market favourite into a global baking empire, opening bakeries and schools in Chelsea, Wembley, and even as far as Dubai and Jeddah.
Today, Bread Ahead has become a global baking movement. And whether you’re grabbing a doughnut in London or kneading dough in a baking workshop, Bread Ahead proves that great bread really can bring people together.
FINK’S
Fink’s didn’t start with a grand plan—it started with a rundown shop, a couple of big ideas, and dinnertable dreams. When Mat Appleton and Jess Blackstone opened their first café in Highbury in 2014, their goal was simple: serve great coffee, make better sandwiches, and create a space that felt like home. Nearly a decade later, Fink’s has grown into four buzzing locations, each brimming with playful, creative energy.
But it wasn’t all flat whites and focaccia. A flood turned their café into a “basement pool” (their words, not ours), and the pandemic tested their resilience like never before. Through it all, Mat and Jess stayed focused on delighting their customers with thoughtful touches like Dusty Knuckle bread and natural wines.
In 2023, they added Saltine, a modern neighbourhood restaurant in a reimagined chicken shop. With dishes like pickled mackerel on rye and roast chicken with bread salad, Saltine is all about seasonal cooking and laid-back dining.
Scaling up wasn’t easy, but Square made it seamless. From morning coffee to shiso martinis, Fink’s and Saltine track it all while keeping their spaces running smoothly.
Fink’s and Saltine aren’t just places to eat—they’re everevolving love letters to North and East London, showing us that a bit of creativity, a lot of heart, and the right tools can turn any challenge into an opportunity.
TO MIKKELLER
When Francesca D’Agostino learned that her favourite local café was closing, she faced a choice: let it go or take a leap of faith. With a pint in hand and the encouragement of her neighbours, she decided to take it on herself, determined to keep the heart of Hackney alive. What began as a bold, uncertain step quickly became a turning point—not just for Francesca, but for the entire neighbourhood.
From the start, Wilton Way was more than just a café. During the pandemic, it became a lifeline for the community, offering outdoor seating and hatch service that brought people together during a time of isolation. Francesca’s personal touch made the café a place where everyone felt welcome, especially older residents who found connection and conversation there every morning.
In 2022, Francesca’s vision grew even bigger. She opened a deli down the street, showcasing locally sourced and Italian-inspired produce. But when the opportunity arose to transform another corner café into an all-day diner, Francesca needed extra support.
With Square, she was able to make it happen, expanding Wilton Way into three thriving locations. Square’s tools now keep everything running smoothly, from tracking customer trends to managing daily operations across sites.
What began as a bold decision has transformed into a thriving community hub, surprising even Francesca herself. It’s a reminder that sometimes, trusting in yourself and taking the leap is the best move you can make.
1. VEGAN SHACK 184 Rochdale Rd
2. PICO’S TACOS Mackie Mayor, 1 Eagle St
3. EZRA & GIL HILTON STREET 20 Hilton St
4. EZRA & GIL PETER STREET 49 Peter St
5. HIGHER GROUND Faulkner House, New York St
6. ACAI AND THE TRIBE 243 Deansgate
7. KITTEN 9 Deansgate, Owen St
8. PICO’S TACOS Market House, Greenwood St
9. GRAN T’S COFFEE HOUSE 29 Stamford New Rd
At ÉKO ‘77, the first thing you notice isn’t just the scent of smoky jollof rice or the sizzle of suya on the grill, it’s the unmistakable spirit of Lagos brought to the UK.
Inspired by Nigeria’s vibrant culture and the legendary FESTAC ‘77, Chef Sekinat, her husband Sammy, and their son SK have created a restaurant that’s equal parts flavour, family, and flair.
For Sekinat, cooking is second nature. A third-generation chef, she grew up in kitchens where every meal was an event and every ingredient had a purpose. At ÉKO ‘77, her passion takes centre stage, with dishes that honour Nigerian traditions while inviting everyone to the table. From their signature pepper soup to tender suya skewers, every part of their menu delivers.
Running a family business has its challenges, but for Sekinat, Sammy, and SK, it’s a labour of love rooted in their shared vision. Plus it doesn’t hurt that they have Square to help support. From streamlining their orders in their bustling kitchens to providing the insights they need to grow. And when they realised just how popular they had become, Square’s tools allowed them to scale effortlessly, helping them open three locations in a year.
At ÉKO ‘77, every meal is an invitation to experience the rich heritage of Nigerian cuisine. It’s a place where family and culture meet and where every guest leaves with a taste of something unforgettable.
The moment you walk into All Nations Vegan House, you’re welcomed by the rich aroma of Caribbean spices, the hum of reggae music, and the warmth of a team that greets every guest like family.
Founded by Chef Atrika Cameron in 2017, this Hackney gem serves up the bold, plant-based flavours of Ital cuisine, rooted in a deep connection to nature. Atrika’s passion for cooking began in Jamaica, where she grew up learning the art of Ital food—a way of eating that nourishes both body and soul.
At All Nations, her menu brings those traditions to life, offering dishes like pepper pot mushrooms and ackee with plantain, all crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Every plate tells a story of culture, family, and care.
At All Nations, every detail matters. The food, the atmosphere, the experience—it all has to feel just right. That’s why Atrika relies on Square to keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. From creating a seamless checkout experience to providing insights on customer favourites, Square ensures everything stays as vibrant as the food being served.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a longtime lover of Ital or just discovering its magic, All Nation’s Vegan House will make sure that you leave with a full belly and a full heart.
At Pavilion, sourdough is king, cardamom buns are royalty, and Sri Lankan dhal is the soulful sidekick you didn’t know you needed.
This East London institution began as a humble tea stall but has since grown into a six-location haven where the smell of fresh pastries meets the warmth of spiced chai.
It all started with founder Rob Green’s love affair with Sri Lanka. Inspired by the flavours, culture, and community he discovered there, Rob brought a bit of the Sri Lankan culture back to London. Today, Pavilion’s menu seamlessly blends buttery pastries with bold Sri Lankan classics, proving you can have your cardamom bun and eat your dhal too.
Each Pavilion location has its own vibe, but they all share the same obsession: getting it just right. From sourdough loaves to flaky almond croissants, their bakers mix, laminate, and bake with the kind of precision that would make a Swiss watchmaker jealous. And while the food does the talking, the cosy, community-driven spaces keep people coming back for more.
But what helps keep it running so efficiently? Square of course. Whether it’s managing the morning rush or ensuring every roti lands perfectly on the plate, Square ensures Pavilion can focus on their craft without breaking a sweat.
So, grab a coffee, settle in with a pastry, and let Pavilion take you from East London to Sri Lanka and back again—all in a single bite.
Panadera is what happens when Filipino traditions and London vibes get baked into something truly delicious.
Perched on Kentish Town Road, this Filipino-inspired hotspot has been turning heads (and filling bellies) since 2021—serving up treats as bold and bright as its pastel interiors.
Co-founders Florence Mae Maglanoc and Omar Shah took a big swing when they opened Panadera mid-lockdown, but if anyone knows how to take a risk and win, it’s this duo. Inspired by the Filipino love of breakfast and baked goods, they’ve reimagined classics for London’s ever-curious foodies. The result? Ube croissants, calamansi meringue tarts, and their cult-favourite corned beef sando—a crispy, gooey marvel that’s 50% comfort and 100% delicious.
Every part of Panadera is a nod to Mae and Omar’s roots and a wink to London’s eclectic palate. The sweetness of pandesal meets the zing of calamansi, and traditional flavours are given a fresh, playful twist. It’s this mix of nostalgia and innovation that keeps the queue out the door and the Instagram tags rolling in.
When it comes to keeping Panadera moving, Square acts like an extra set of hands. From ensuring they can speed through queues to tracking the rise (pun intended) of their bestselling pastries. Plus, with a menu that’s always evolving, Square’s insights make it easy to spot what’s flying off the shelves and what’s ready for its next twist.
From mango floats to calamansi tarts, every visit to Panadera is a delicious journey to the Philippines—one that’ll have you dreaming of your next stop before you’ve even left the counter.
1. ÉKO ‘77 208 Kingstanding Rd
2. FOX AND CHANCE 45 Pinfold St
3. FACULTY COFFEE 14 Piccadilly Arcade
4. CIARO ITALIAN 42 Gas St
5. CAFE LOVELIFE 28 Floodgate St, Deritend
6. PITMASTER BIRMINGHAM 671, 675 Stratford Rd
At Mikkeller, beer isn’t just a drink, it’s an adventure. This Danish craft brewery, which planted its London roots in 2018, is redefining what it means to master a craft.
With two buzzing locations and a brewpub that’s always experimenting, Mikkeller turns hops, malt, and a little bit of magic into bold, unforgettable flavours.
For Mikkeller, the secret is in the details. Every batch is an opportunity to try something new— whether it’s yuzu-infused ales, barrel-aged stouts, or even chilli-spiked lagers. The taps are constantly changing, but the commitment to quality and creativity remains the same. It’s a playground for beer enthusiasts and an everevolving canvas for the team, where no two visits are alike.
Behind the bar, Square helps keep things flowing by helping manage their ever-changing menu of brews, speeding up queues with seamless checkouts, and helping the team identify which creations are a hit.
So take a step inside, and you’ll find a space that feels just as daring as the beer—raw, lively, and filled with the hum of conversation. At Mikkeller, they’re not just pouring pints; they’re pushing boundaries and redefining what’s possible in the world of beer.
Maui Poke is where Hawaiian flavours meet London’s hustle, and the result is nothing short of delicious.
Opened in 2017 by Fiona and Andy, this vibrant poké house is all a bout bringing fresh, bold, and beautifully crafted bowls to the city’s food scene. Inspired by family recipes and the traditions of Hawaii, they’ve built a menu that’s as colourful as it is crave-worthy.
What sets Maui Poke apart is their attention to detail. Every bowl is a masterpiece, from the fluffiest sushi rice to the freshest ahi tuna, crowned with crispy shallots, pickled ginger, and a drizzle of their house-made sauces. Whether you’re a poké purist or a firsttimer, their 5-step build-your-own concept means you can make every bowl your own.
Running a fast-paced, multi-location business takes more than just great food—it takes precision. With Square, Maui Poke has cut wait times in half, ensuring customers spend less time queuing and more time enjoying. Real-time sales data lets them track every topping trend, while Square’s seamless interface makes life easier for both staff and customers.
At Maui Poke, every visit is packed with flavour, energy, and the kind of feel-good vibes that make you forget it’s a weekday. So grab a fork, dive in, and let Maui Poke bring a little slice of Hawaii to your day—because life’s too short for boring lunches. MAUI POKE
Some cafés serve coffee. Ezra & Gil serve a whole mood.
Since opening in Manchester’s Northern Quarter in 2014, they’ve been the go-to for flat whites, smashed pumpkin toast, and a side of good vibes. The name means “Helper” and “Happiness,” but really, it’s shorthand for “Manchester’s favourite hangout.”
At Ezra & Gil, breakfast runs till 5 pm because mornings are a state of mind. Their menu takes the classics— think granola, pancakes, and that chorizo hash Benedict everyone’s talking about—and gives them a little something extra. Add a friendly team that knows your order before you do, and you’ve got the recipe for a place that feels like home—if home had better coffee.
Now with three locations, Ezra & Gil has gone from a neighbourhood gem to a full-on institution, all while keeping things fresh and familiar. How do they do it? Square makes the magic happen behind the counter, from cutting queue times to tracking which specials are a hit. It’s the secret ingredient to their seamless service.
With a growing fanbase and dishes that always deliver, Ezra & Gil has become the kind of café people plan their day around. And honestly? It’s easy to see why.
Higher Ground doesn’t follow trends— it sets them.
Founded by Richard Cossins, Daniel Craig-Martin, and Joe Otway, this Manchester neo-bistro is the result of three friends turning their award-winning experience into a bold experiment in seasonal, boundary-pushing dining.
With a menu that changes daily and ingredients sourced from their very own Cinderwood Market Garden, Higher Ground is all about letting great produce shine.
The concept began as a pop-up, but it didn’t take long for Manchester to catch on. Now a permanent fixture, Higher Ground has made a name for itself with dishes like brown crab pappardelle and coal-baked celeriac, each one carefully crafted to celebrate the region’s flavours. The open kitchen design adds to the experience, giving guests a front-row seat to the artistry behind every plate.
Running a restaurant that reinvents itself daily isn’t easy, but with Square, the team makes it look effortless. From updating their constantly evolving menu to managing payments without a hitch, Square’s tools help keep the focus on creativity and connection.
Higher Ground isn’t about doing what’s expected. It’s about exploring what’s possible and making Manchester the kind of place where bold, seasonal cooking takes centre stage.
To the incredible businesses that fill these pages: Thank you.
Thank you for the long hours, the countless ideas, and the dedication you bring to your work. Thank you for building spaces where people feel connected, crafting experiences that bring joy, and making your communities brighter with everything you do.
It’s not just about the food, the service, or the craft—it’s about the connections you create. The neighbourhoods you bring to life. The memories you help shape with every plate served, every drink poured, and every door you hold open.
At Square, we’re endlessly inspired by the energy and passion you bring to what you do. We’re proud to stand beside you, offering the tools to help your ideas flow as smoothly as your service. But we know it’s your heart, hustle, and unwavering dedication that make the magic happen.
This zine is just a glimpse of the stories, flavours, and sparks of brilliance you bring to the world. For that, we’re grateful—not just as your partners, but as your biggest fans.
Here’s to you, the creators, the innovators, and the community builders. Keep dreaming big, serving bold, and showing us all what’s possible.
With gratitude,
