The series where we ask the county’s chefs to share their popular dishes of the moment.
Northants Uncovered launches its brand-new Chef’s Choice series with a visit to Spread — Northampton’s popular sandwich shop on Adnitt Road. In this series, we ask the owners/chefs of independent Northamptonshire eateries for THEIR recommendations.
Spread, a popular sandwich shop on Adnitt Road, has also gained a following for its impressive matcha menu.
Owner Amy and self-proclaimed ‘Queen of Sandwiches’ Adriana were only too happy to oblige. They were keen to point out that things move quickly at Spread— menus change with the seasons or around specific themes, though a few classic favourites always remain. For this visit, they selected a mix of foodie faves from both their signature classics and the current autumnal menu.
Matcha Moment – Cinnamon Toast Crunch Matcha with Cinnamon Cold Foam – Jemma’s Pick
We’re starting with my personal favourite because I’d heard about Spread’s matcha. This matcha drink picked from the current autumnal menu did not disappoint.
“Matcha has become really popular,” says owner Amy. “We’ve offered them since we first opened in January 2023 — hot or iced, classic or seasonal. The Cinnamon Toast Matcha with Cold Foam is one of our bestsellers this autumn.
Matcha is currently on-trend and is definitely our best-selling drink. “
For those not yet up to date with this wellness trend, a Matcha – often enjoyed as an alternative to a coffee latte – is a creamy drink made from matcha powder, whisked with hot water served hot or cold with milk. The team at Spread put their own unique twist on every drink. The Autumnal menu features flavours like pumpkin cream, apple pie and maple syrup.
The verdict:
Think layers of autumn in a cup. Liberally sprinkled with cinammon, the first sip brings a warm hit of the spice, followed by creamy sweetness and earthy matcha notes. Slurp deeper, and you hit a syrupy sweetness that blends with the spice. Think layers of jumpers, scarves and boots – all in an autumnal cup.
This one was actually my favourite — and I’m already eyeing up the Apple Pie Matcha next.
Seriously, if you haven’t tried a Matcha at Spread, make it your next stop.
The Spread OG – The Original Classic – Amy’s Pick
If there’s one sandwich that defines Spread, it’s The OG, says owner Amy.
Originally a grazing company, Spread took the bold move of putting their creative grazing board ingredients into sandwiches.
“It was the first sandwich we ever made — and it’s still our bestseller,” explains Amy. “Brie, Salami, Olives, sun-dried tomatoes and caramelised onion chutney. It’s basically everything we loved from our original grazing boards packed into a sandwich.
Many of our original customers know us for our Italian meats, cheeses, and antipasti. Those products were so popular in the grazing boxes before and The Spread still best represents what we offer today.”
The verdict:
Sweet chutney meets creamy brie, with the punch of olives and the freshness of sun-dried tomatoes. The bread is soft and fresh and generously-portioned. The flavours in the sandwich create a unique taste – definitely an Italian vibe. It’s a perfect example of what Spread does best: quality ingredients and creative combinations that leave flavours tingling in the mouth.
The Pulled Pork Special – Adriana’s Pick
Resident chef and queen of the sandwiches Adriana didn’t hesitate when asked what’s flying off the counter right now.
“Definitely the Pulled Pork Special — pulled pork, apple sauce, buttery stuffing, crispy onions and leaves,” she said. “We change the menu every month, sometimes every week, to keep things seasonal — but this one’s always a hit.”
The verdict:
A nice combination of flavours — the stuffing had a pleasant zing to it. The sandwich offered a unique mix of ingredients, and the bread was beautifully fresh. You could tell everything was made with quality produce — not a wilted leaf in sight. A satisfying sandwich with a unique combination of flavours that keeps you fuelled for hours.
A community cafe, Spread hosts local bakers who fill the popular shop with freshly-baked cakes, biscuits and sweet treats.
Spread can be found at 157 Adnitt Road, Northampton NN1 4NH.
Opening hours are:
Wednesday to Saturday 9am – 2pm
Telephone: 07541 480883
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spr.ead/
If you have a favourite place to eat that you think deserves a shout-out, we’d love to hear from you!