OUR STORY
French & Day is a modern British delicatessen and wine shop in the heart of Ware, Hertfordshire. Founded by husbands Thomas Day and Thomas French, we opened in December 2020 with one aim: to bring brilliant food and drink to our local high street. What started as a counter full of artisan cheese and charcuterie – with a small but carefully chosen wine selection – has grown into a lively hub for flavour-lovers, gift-hunters, and anyone looking to eat and drink a little better.
We’ve always been obsessed with food and drink – and travel has a lot to answer for. From vineyard tastings in La Rioja to tiny charcuterías in Burgos, our travels have shaped the shelves you see today. But no matter where the inspiration comes from, we’re most passionate about championing local and British producers, and bringing you the best of what’s being made right here.
You’ll still find us in the shop most days – chatting with customers, slicing cheese, pouring wine, and sharing the things we love!
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![You know it's Christmas when the big boy Baron* comes out!
We're open every day from now until Christmas, so come stock up on all your cheese, wine, gifts, and delicious things!
* Totally making this my new nickname]()
You know it's Christmas when the big boy Baron* comes out! We're open every day from now until Christmas, so come stock up on all your cheese, wine, gifts, and delicious things! * Totally making this my new nicknameButton -
![And just like that, we're 5 years old! ?
Time flies when you're having fun, and the last 5 years have just flown by! Opening the shop days before we went into Lockdown 2, wearing masks, only 2 customers allowed in at a time... doesn't that feel like a million years ago? Yet, it feels like only yesterday we decided to go for it and do what we'd talked about 100 times over dinner and open our own delicatessen.
It's been a rollercoaster few years but, as we brace for our busiest period of trading, we feel so proud of what we've accomplished and the community of customers, staff, and friends that have grown around our little dream. It goes without saying that we are massively grateful for you all!
Although not everyone made it into our super-planned-in-advance-definitely-didn't-just-ask-a-customer-to-do-it photos in this post, we want to do a shout-out to our amazing team who work so, so hard to provide the very best service and experience for our customers - they are a joy to work with and we couldn't imagine doing this without them. Howard, Ellie, Cameron, Reuben, Kath, Sarah, Mark, Mum, and (occasionally) Papa Day - you are awesome!
Right, time to find some cake (and wine).]()
And just like that, we're 5 years old! 🎂 Time flies when you're having fun, and the last 5 years have just flown by! Opening the shop days before we went into Lockdown 2, wearing masks, only 2 customers allowed in at a time... doesn't that feel like a million years ago? Yet, it feels like only yesterday we decided to go for it and do what we'd talked about 100 times over dinner and open our own delicatessen. It's been a rollercoaster few years but, as we brace for our busiest period of trading, we feel so proud of what we've accomplished and the community of customers, staff, and friends that have grown around our little dream. It goes without saying that we are massively grateful for you all! Although not everyone made it into our super-planned-in-advance-definitely-didn't-just-ask-a-customer-to-do-it photos in this post, we want to do a shout-out to our amazing team who work so, so hard to provide the very best service and experience for our customers - they are a joy to work with and we couldn't imagine doing this without them. Howard, Ellie, Cameron, Reuben, Kath, Sarah, Mark, Mum, and (occasionally) Papa Day - you are awesome! Right, time to find some cake (and wine).Button -
![Our coffees from Hatfield-based @sustaincoffeeco have just had a glow up and they look soooo pretty! ?
Be sure to pop in and stock up for Christmas (or just gaze lovingly at the new packaging).]()
Our coffees from Hatfield-based @sustaincoffeeco have just had a glow up and they look soooo pretty! 😍 Be sure to pop in and stock up for Christmas (or just gaze lovingly at the new packaging).Button -
![RESTOCK ALERT!
Your favourite crisps from Herefordshire heroes @twofarmerscrisps are back on the shelves, with an extra flavour joining the line-up too.
Back in stock:
• Hereford Bullshot – rich, savoury and full of depth.
• Woodland Mushroom & Wild Garlic – earthy, gently garlicky and seriously moreish.
Now also in:
• Hereford Hop Cheese & Onion – a classic done well, with local hops adding an extra savoury edge.
Stock up ahead of Christmas – ideal for drinks nibbles, hampers, and those bowls that mysteriously empty themselves (so mysterious!)]()
RESTOCK ALERT! Your favourite crisps from Herefordshire heroes @twofarmerscrisps are back on the shelves, with an extra flavour joining the line-up too. Back in stock: • Hereford Bullshot – rich, savoury and full of depth. • Woodland Mushroom & Wild Garlic – earthy, gently garlicky and seriously moreish. Now also in: • Hereford Hop Cheese & Onion – a classic done well, with local hops adding an extra savoury edge. Stock up ahead of Christmas – ideal for drinks nibbles, hampers, and those bowls that mysteriously empty themselves (so mysterious!)Button -
![Behold our festive opening hours!
We are also open 10 - 6 this Tuesday-Thursday, just to give you a little more time to stock up on tasty festive treats (or have a sly glass of wine) ?]()
Behold our festive opening hours! We are also open 10 - 6 this Tuesday-Thursday, just to give you a little more time to stock up on tasty festive treats (or have a sly glass of wine) 😁Button -
![ANOTHER FESTIVE SPECIAL EDITION ALERT!
A Christmas classic and a firm favourite for a reason - Santa’s Little Helper from @tringbrewery is back again for the festive season – malty, comforting and perfectly pitched for winter drinking.
We get asked about this one every year, and it never hangs around for long. Stock is strictly limited, and when it’s gone, it’s gone (until next Christmas rolls around again).
If this is one you look forward to each year, now’s the moment to stock up!]()
ANOTHER FESTIVE SPECIAL EDITION ALERT! A Christmas classic and a firm favourite for a reason - Santa’s Little Helper from @tringbrewery is back again for the festive season – malty, comforting and perfectly pitched for winter drinking. We get asked about this one every year, and it never hangs around for long. Stock is strictly limited, and when it’s gone, it’s gone (until next Christmas rolls around again). If this is one you look forward to each year, now’s the moment to stock up!Button -
![FESTIVE SPECIAL EDITION ALERT!
Introducing The Nutcracker Hazelnut Stout; a brand new festive special from @madsquirrelbrew ?
The Nutcracker is a rich, winter-warming stout with layers of roasted malt, cocoa and a gentle hit of hazelnut – ideal for dark evenings and festive indulgence.
This is a seasonal special edition and we have very limited stock of it, so grab a can or two before they're all gone!]()
FESTIVE SPECIAL EDITION ALERT! Introducing The Nutcracker Hazelnut Stout; a brand new festive special from @madsquirrelbrew 🎄 The Nutcracker is a rich, winter-warming stout with layers of roasted malt, cocoa and a gentle hit of hazelnut – ideal for dark evenings and festive indulgence. This is a seasonal special edition and we have very limited stock of it, so grab a can or two before they're all gone!Button -
![NEW PRODUCT ALERT!
Say hello to our gorgeous new Italian jams from @chiaverinifirenze: Albicocche (Apricot), Pesche (Peach), and Mirtilli Selvatici (Wild Blueberry). Small-batch, beautifully balanced, and just the kind of thing that makes a morning slice of sourdough feel like a tiny holiday.
Yes, we usually champion the locally made – but every now and then something from a little further afield is simply too good to pass up...
Pop in and give them a try – they’re on the shelves now and looking rather irresistible! ?]()
NEW PRODUCT ALERT! Say hello to our gorgeous new Italian jams from @chiaverinifirenze: Albicocche (Apricot), Pesche (Peach), and Mirtilli Selvatici (Wild Blueberry). Small-batch, beautifully balanced, and just the kind of thing that makes a morning slice of sourdough feel like a tiny holiday. Yes, we usually champion the locally made – but every now and then something from a little further afield is simply too good to pass up... Pop in and give them a try – they’re on the shelves now and looking rather irresistible! 😍Button -
![FESTIVE SPECIAL EDITION ALERT!
We’ve managed to nab the very last case of this year’s PUD PUD Cherry Gin from the brilliant @campfiregin – their once-a-year festive run that disappears faster than you can say “just one more G&T”!
This year’s edition is everything you want it to be: bright, juicy cherries, and a touch of winter spice. Perfect for Christmas cocktails, party spritzes, or a cheeky Christmas Eve sip while wrapping presents.
And just so we’re clear: when this lot has gone, that’s it until 2026! No secret stash. No stockroom cache. Truly last-call territory.
Available now in-store of through our online shop – treat yourself before someone else does!]()
FESTIVE SPECIAL EDITION ALERT! We’ve managed to nab the very last case of this year’s PUD PUD Cherry Gin from the brilliant @campfiregin – their once-a-year festive run that disappears faster than you can say “just one more G&T”! This year’s edition is everything you want it to be: bright, juicy cherries, and a touch of winter spice. Perfect for Christmas cocktails, party spritzes, or a cheeky Christmas Eve sip while wrapping presents. And just so we’re clear: when this lot has gone, that’s it until 2026! No secret stash. No stockroom cache. Truly last-call territory. Available now in-store of through our online shop – treat yourself before someone else does!Button -
![We've got some cracking treats for you this Christmas (see what we did there?)!
These super cute cocktail crackers from the good folks at @whiteboxcocktails are the perfect stocking filler, Secret Santa gift, or table present for your most beloved family and friends. We have Pocket Negroni, Squeezy's Margarita, and the ever-popular Spicy Marg.
We have a strictly limited quantity available, so when these are gone, they're gone!]()
We've got some cracking treats for you this Christmas (see what we did there?)! These super cute cocktail crackers from the good folks at @whiteboxcocktails are the perfect stocking filler, Secret Santa gift, or table present for your most beloved family and friends. We have Pocket Negroni, Squeezy's Margarita, and the ever-popular Spicy Marg. We have a strictly limited quantity available, so when these are gone, they're gone!Button -
![We're getting all Dickensian up in here! Come and brave the rain to furnish yourself with some of our fortifying]()
We're getting all Dickensian up in here! Come and brave the rain to furnish yourself with some of our fortifying "Smoking Bishop" Mulled Port! 🍷 Hand-made by us, using an authentic Dicknesian recipe (Smoking Bishop is actually mentioned in the last chapter of A Christmas Carol!), you won't find this tasty tipple anywhere else. You won't find it anytime else either, as we make this but once a year (it takes two nights to make). Now isn't that worth coming out for?! Available whilst stocks last!Button -
![Welcome to your new obsession.
Croissant Crisps from Irish makers @fleurdelan_ have just landed in the shop, and honestly… they’re a bit outrageous. Imagine all the flaky, buttery joy of a croissant, baked into a delicate little crisp that somehow manages to be both feather-light and seriously moreish. They’re the sort of thing you open 'just to try one' and suddenly the bag has mysteriously vanished (so weird!)
Pop in and give them a try. Don't say we didn't warn you!]()
Welcome to your new obsession. Croissant Crisps from Irish makers @fleurdelan_ have just landed in the shop, and honestly… they’re a bit outrageous. Imagine all the flaky, buttery joy of a croissant, baked into a delicate little crisp that somehow manages to be both feather-light and seriously moreish. They’re the sort of thing you open 'just to try one' and suddenly the bag has mysteriously vanished (so weird!) Pop in and give them a try. Don't say we didn't warn you!Button
Our Products
Everything we stock is chosen with care and, if it’s on our shelves, it’s because we genuinely believe it deserves to be there.
Our range includes quality wines from independent producers, British spirits, craft beers, tinned fish, pickles, snacks, and all the store cupboard essentials you didn’t know you needed!
We’re especially proud of our cheese counter, which focusses on award-winning British cheese from some of the country’s best dairies and farmhouse producers. We also stock a growing range of local products from Hertfordshire and the surrounding counties, including cordials, condiments, sauces, and sweet treats.
Whether you're looking for a bottle to go with dinner, a thank-you gift, or the makings of a knockout cheeseboard, we’ll help you find something delicious!
Meet the TeAM
We’re Tom & Tom – partners in life and in business. Thomas Day (that’s the one behind the counter most days, wearing glasses) has a background in interior design for retail, hospitality, and commercial spaces. Thomas French (the taller one) is a graphic designer for a local chemical manufacturer. Together, we’ve built French & Day Delicatessen as a place where good design meets good food – thoughtful, welcoming, and full of flavour.
We’re supported by a small but mighty team who help keep everything running smoothly – from building hampers and restocking the chutney shelf to offering brilliant recommendations and championing British cheese like it’s a competitive sport.
Tom (Day)
Owner
WSET Level 2 Award in Wines
Academy of Cheese Associate
Living the 'never trust a thin chef' lifestyle and making it his mission to provide robust quality assurance on all of our wines.
Favourite cheese: Cornish Kern
Favourite product: San Marzano 'Talò' Verdeca Puglia
Tom (French)
Owner
WSET Level 2 Award in Wines
Academy of Cheese Associate
The superior Tom, his happy place at work is quietly washing up in the kitchen whilst re-watching episodes of Friends.
Favourite cheese: Sheep Rustler
Favourite product: Mr Fitzpatrick's Superior Blackcurrant Cordial
Howard
Assistant Manager
WSET Level 2 Award in Wines
Howard has been with us since 2023 and has recently been promoted to Assistant Manager (go Howard!). His latte art is the one to beat.
Favourite cheese: Cremet
Favourite product: Feudi di San Gregorio Greco di Tufo
Cameron
Shop Assistant
Our nephew Cameron has been adding a little sass to the team since 2024. His cheese board composition is a wonder to behold.
Favourite cheese: Rachael Reserva
Favourite product: Mr Fitzpatrick's Superior Blackcurrant Cordial
MArni
Shop Assistant
Marni joined us in early 2025 and definitely has the best cheese-side manner of us all. Her specialist skill is opening bottles of bubbly without spilling a drop.
Favourite cheese: Oakwood Smoked Cheddar
Favourite product: Popcorn Kitchen White Chocolate & Raspberry Popcorn
Reuben
Shop Assistant
Reuben joined us in early 2025.. His rugby-playing skills have proved invaluable when it comes to shifting cheese. He is a restocking machine.
Favourite cheese: Cornish Kern
Favourite product: Caramelised Biscuit Brownie
Ellie
Boomerang Shop Assistant
Academy of Cheese Associate
Ellie joined us as our second-ever member of staff back in 2021 and is still with us! She pops back from university in Canterbury to help us out from time to time and run amazing cheese and wine evenings.
Favourite cheese: Capricorn
Favourite product: Serious Pig Pickle with Dill Flavour Crisps
Shoshana
Head of Marketing
Loves looking at cat content on social media and driving engagement through belly rubs.
Favourite cheese: Spenwood (though her loyalty may lie with Dreamies)
Matilda
Head of HR
Like any good Head of HR, Matilda is a ruthless killer with a penchant for chin strokes.
Favourite Cheese: Old Winchester (or anything you're trying to eat without her noticing)
