FOR many new cafe and restaurant ventures, the new decade promises more uncertainty as the high street continues to struggle.

For new Dalton Road cafe, 'Smilers', however, the future looks bright as it pushes back against the decline of the high street.

Smilers takes its name after one of its co-owners, Ismail Kaya, who moved to Barrow from Turkey a number of years ago.

Along with partner Lisa Clark (the duo previously ran Coffee Bean - just across the street), Mr Kaya relocated the business to what until last year was a Subway, at the corner where the road meets Buccleuch Street.

One way the cafe ensures a steady flow of customers is through its friendly service. Miss Clark says she wants to offer a “rustic feel which is family friendly and has an inviting atmosphere.”

The chatty and helpful staff certainly help to create the impression Miss Clark describes, with a relaxed and unfussy feel putting diners at ease.

At seven pounds, Smilers’ 'Mediterranean Royale' - part of an entire section of Smilers’ menu dedicated to egg-based dishes - is at the pricier end of the daytime fare on offer here.

But luckily it doesn’t disappoint. The colourful twist on an eggs benedict could work both as an indulgent lunch option or a hearty breakfast.

Poached eggs cooked to perfection sat atop toasted muffins, accompanied by grilled spicy garlic sausage that packs a punch and cuts through the fresh halloumi cheese.

The dish was rounded off by a faultless hollandaise sauce.

The Royale was one of a number of well-presented lunch options Barrow diners were tucking into on Wednesday afternoon.

If one criticism could be made of the eatery, it is perhaps that more of the owners’ Turkish gastronomical tradition could be included in the current menu.

To Smilers’ credit, there are some tea infusions on offer.

And, although any new Turkish offering would face stiff competition from Dalton Road’s Kapadokya, Smilers’ owners hinted they might introduce Turkish sweets - with manager Apo Gonulcan suggesting the sweet dessert baklava could feature on their menu in the near future.

On the whole, Smilers serves up value for money and cheerful service.

As such, it promises to be an eatery that weathers the high street storm for small businesses.

The Verdict:

Food: 5

Service: 5

Atmosphere: 4