John Lewis Replaces Instore Cafe Brand With New Platter Concept

I still remember the ritual. You’d finish your shopping, feet aching, and sink into a worn armchair in the John Lewis cafe. You’d scan the menu for that reliable scone and a pot of tea, feeling like you’d earned a small, civilised victory. It was a pause button in the middle of a chaotic high street—or, let’s be honest, a chance to people-watch while pretending to check your phone.

So when I heard John Lewis was replacing those beloved cafes with the new “Platter Concept,” my first reaction was sheer, dramatic betrayal. A platter? I thought. Are they turning my scone into a deconstructed, shareable art project? But then I took a breath and decided to actually look at what this new concept involves. Spoiler: it’s not just a sad collection of crackers.

What Actually Is This ‘Platter Concept’?

Let’s cut through the PR jargon. The new brand is ditching the classic “cafe” label in favour of a “grab-and-go platter” system. You choose your base (like a flatbread or a salad bowl), then your proteins (maybe smoked salmon or roasted vegetables), and then your extras (cheese, dips, pickled things).

It’s a bit like a build-your-own adventure, but for lunch. And honestly? It’s cleverer than it sounds—it cuts down on waiting time and appeals to the “I want everything, but fast” modern shopper. You know, us.

The Death of the Scone? (Not Quite)

Here’s the irony: everyone—including me—panicked that this meant the end of the classic teacake. But John Lewis insists the new concept still offers “familiar favourites” like cake and pastries. So your Earl Grey and crumpet aren’t extinct; they’re just sharing the spotlight with a bowl of roasted beetroot and feta.

Think of it as a remix rather than a replacement. The platter approach actually makes sense for the busy shopper who wants a decent lunch without the long queuing for a jacket potato. Side note: have you tried queuing at a John Lewis cafe on a Saturday? It’s a test of patience.

Why Change a Good Thing?

Let’s be real: John Lewis is struggling like many department stores. They need to attract younger, hungrier crowds who might not have time for a full sit-down meal. The platter concept is faster, more Instagrammable (yes, that’s a factor), and feels more “food market” than “retirement home.”

It’s also a smart move for flexibility. You can grab a platter to eat in-store, take it to your desk, or even share with a friend in the park. Try that with a hot scone and clotted cream—it’ll end up on your jeans.

The ‘Rocket & Rocket’ Nostalgia

I can’t help but laugh at the branding. The new concept—reportedly named “Platter by John Lewis” or similar—sounds like a pop-up at a music festival. There’s a definite hipster vibe: pickled vegetables, sourdough, and “artisan” cheese. It’s the kind of menu that makes you want to wear a linen shirt and talk about your sourdough starter.

But here’s the thing: it works. People love this kind of customisable, “look-at-what-I-created” lunch. It’s the same psychology that made Chipotle and Subway so popular—but with a British, middle-class twist.

The Emotional Loss (and Gain)

I’d be lying if I said I don’t miss the old cafe’s cosy shabbiness. The worn-out teapots, the slightly stale Victoria sponge, the lady with the pearls tutting at your shopping bags. It felt like a community ritual. Now, it feels more like a transaction—efficient, yes, but less soulful.

Then again, the old cafe also had a queue of grumpy parents and lukewarm soup. Nostalgia is fickle. The platter concept might actually be better for those of us who want a decent, quick lunch without feeling like we’re interrupting a bridge game.

So, Will You Try It?

I’m a sucker for curiosity. I’ll probably wander in, order a flatbread with roasted peppers and hummus, and feel vaguely smug about my adult decision. Will I weep into my mint tea? Probably not. But I might text a friend: “They have a harissa cauliflower platter now. It’s weirdly good.”

If you’re a purist, brace yourself—the scone might become a side order. But if you’re open to change, this could be the refresh that keeps John Lewis relevant. At least until the kooky, unexpected platter names start sounding like rejected BuzzFeed quizzes.

The Final Bite

John Lewis is betting that we’re ready to trade a stiff-upper-lip scone for a sharable, photo-friendly bowl of lentils. And you know what? After two years of lockdowns and chaos, I’m ready for a little culinary adventure—even if it comes with a side of mild existential dread about the death of traditional department store dining.

But seriously, if they remove the Earl Grey, I’ll be writing a strongly worded email. Some traditions, after all, are non-negotiable.

P.S. – If you try the platter, let me know. I’ll be the one pretending to read the label on the goat’s cheese while eavesdropping on your reaction.