A ribbon-cutting ceremony has been held to open a unique new cafe in the centre of Burnham-On-Sea.
Coffee, Cake and Curtains in Burnham’s Victoria Street was officially launched by MP James Heappey on Saturday (February 16th).
The vibrantly-decorated cafe has launched inside BOS Interiors, which sells a wide range of quality curtains, blinds, upholstery, cushions and fabrics.
Talking to Burnham-On-Sea.com, owner Julia Stradling said: “Over the 30 years we have been open, the business has changed greatly.”
“We have moved with the times and are offering the people of Burnham a brand new experience – a chance to relax in comfortable surroundings with a coffee and a snack without feeling pressured to buy.”
“Our new coffee shop creates a new destination at the northern end of the town centre near the cinema, a craft centre, art shop and a barber – the perfect position.”
“We hope people will enjoy a coffee and some home-made cake or a sandwich and be inspired at the same time with our interior design products around them. It’s a place to come and relax, and not feel pressured to buy – just sit back and enjoy the atmosphere.”
The new cafe is dog-friendly and also has a separate kids craft corner. It can also host birthday parties, meetings and social functions. The owners are also seeking an alcohol license in time for the summer season.
Julia adds: “We hope that locals will come here to enjoy own town rather than driving off to the malls and other towns and cities, or shopping online.”
“Why buy online when you can you can come here and touch and feel the curtains, blinds and fabrics in a relaxed and inspiring environment?”
The new cafe sells a wide range of teas, coffees and light refreshments. “We sell proper Lavazza fresh Italian coffee plus a great selection of home-made cakes, panini, sandwiches, toasties and afternoon teas.”
“We do not intend to be in competition with any of Burnham’s existing cafes – we are doing this to create a very special tea shop experience that is a unique offering in stunningly beautiful surroundings.”
She added: “We began a two month refurbishment back in December, bringing our former workshop back into public use, and we are really delighted with the completed cafe. We are getting wonderfully positive feedback!”
She thanked several locals for their support: “Pat Scott at the Ritz Cinema, the team at FF&F Flooring, Russell at Baytree Upholstery, and all our wonderful staff who have pitched in to help.”
The new 50-seat cafe and shop is open from 8.30am to 4pm, Monday to Saturday.
MP James Heappey, who cut the ribbon to open the new premises, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “What an amazing addition this is to Burnham town centre. Julia and her team really have got it cracked.”
“They know what’s needed to compete with what’s online, and they offer a really fantastic product and service plus and experience that everyone will enjoy.”
He added: “Even if someone is not in the market for curtains they will love the amazing cake!”
