Café 21’s name comes from the restaurant’s original address, 21 Queen Street, on one of Georgian architect John Dobson’s elegant Quayside streets. 'With the regeneration of the Quayside in the 1980s, it was the ideal location for Terry Laybourne to open his first restaurant in 1988, called ’21 Queen Street’ to reflect its understated style.

In 2000, after twelve successful years and a Michelin star, the restaurant was refurbished as the more relaxed and informal Café 21. Restless again, and needing more space plus room for private dining, in June 2007 Terry moved the restaurant around the corner to Trinity Gardens. In a sleek and modern, brand-new building, with plenty of glass, light and air, he was able to design the restaurant to suit his needs. Throughout, however, the ethos of good food, friendly service and relaxed atmosphere has remained the same.