A taste of Lisbon arrives in Formby as new family-run café ‘Canto’ opens its doors

A brand-new, family-run café is bringing a slice of Lisbon to Merseyside after officially opening its doors in Formby this week.

Following months of extensive renovations on a building that formerly housed a chartered surveyors, Canto is already proving to be a massive hit, with its pastry selection completely selling out.

The team behind the new neighbourhood spot drew inspiration from years of travelling across the UK and Europe, aiming to pack all their favourite travel memories into one Formby venue. Fittingly, Canto means “corner” in Portuguese—a perfect match for the café’s location on the corner of Elson Road. Inside, the decor features Iberian-inspired artwork paired with a trendy East London twist.

Founders Erin Howard, her sister Amy Power, and Amy’s husband Adam Power have been completely blown away by the early feedback from residents. 

Amy said: 

“We have all travelled a lot and became a bit obsessed with great coffee, particularly from Borough Market in London. Then we spent some time in Lisbon and just fell in love with the culture there. We hope Canto can combine all those things and really bring something to the local community here in Formby.”

The all-day menu keeps things simple yet delicious, offering a heavy nod to Portugal with classic pastel de nata pastries and sardines served on a tomato base with sourdough bread. Customers can also try their signature Portuguese-style potatoes, “Super Spuds,” topped with parmesan and Canto sauce. 

Adam said: “Who doesn’t love potatoes? And Parmesan? Seriously though, we hope the food will prove popular and there is something for all tastes.”

The aesthetic of the café leans into a distinct continental vibe that seamlessly blends with its Formby environment. Erin spearheaded the branding while Adam took charge of the physical build. The family hopes to open a small outdoor courtyard later this summer to enhance that authentic, al fresco holiday feel. 

Erin said:

“We really didn’t want to put up a big sign outside that didn’t fit in. Our neighbours have been brilliant and we want to make sure we have a feel that fits in and also creates somewhere they want to visit.”

The community’s response suggests they have done exactly that. During a soft launch over the weekend, the café completely ran out of pastries by 1pm on Sunday, following weeks of eager passers-by asking when the doors would finally open. 

Amy said:

“I spotted the building for let months ago when I was running and just thought it would be perfect. We have been dreaming about this for a long time and are so excited we can finally open.”

Beyond the pastry counter, the menu features a breakfast burger, Turkish eggs, a Canto full breakfast, sourdough toast, and crumpets. Other options include poached eggs and portobello mushrooms on toast. For lunch, alongside the sardines, guests can choose from a chicken melt, a tuna melt, or a gourmet toasted cheese blend, and, of course, those Super Spuds.

Vegan pastry options are available, and the team plans to evolve the menu as they gauge what locals love most. Looking ahead, they also hope to host ad-hoc community events, such as book clubs. Canto is dog friendly and is keen to support local producers, serving up Liverpool’s own West Coast Coffee. 

Their opening hours are Tuesday to Friday from 8am to 4pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 3.30pm.

You can follow along for more updates on their Instagram here.

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