Owner serves up treats for fellow coeliacs
GLUTEN-FREE FLAVOUR TO MENU
AS a coeliac himself Jamie Battersby fully understands the importance of a gluten-free diet, which is why his new cafe is not short on suitable options.
Most of the menu at No. 18 Coffee and Eatery is either gluten-free or can be tweaked to make it safe for anyone suffering from the condition.
Jamie, who recently opened in the former premises of Coal and Lace, a coffee shop and micro bar, in Calverton, said: “I had to make sure I catered for everyone so much of our offering either is or can be gluten-free. Many of our cakes are gluten-free and we have vegan ones too so we can cater to all diets.
“I’ve been to many cafes over the years and there’s never much of an offering other than a standard prewrapped chocolate brownie.
“I’ve always felt that I’m able to put customers at ease when I tell them they are in capable hands as I’m a coeliac myself. I understand the struggles of people not understanding what being coeliac means.”
Jamie is no stranger to being behind the counter, having worked in hospitality all his life and spending the last 12 years managing a coffee shop in Ruddington.
“I have always wanted my own coffee shop and being at home for four months during lockdown made me really get stuck into finding one and planning my dream,” he said.
The coffee shop, in St Wilfrid’s Square (number 18, of course), offers a wide selection of paninis, filled rolls, jacket potatoes, soup and cakes. There’s also speciality coffee, supplied by Nottingham roasters 200 Degrees.
Takeaway options are available but for customers wanting to eat in, the surroundings are Covid-secure. Screens have been added in front of the counter, tables are well spaced out two metres apart, there’s regular sanitising of frequently touched surfaces and floor markings show customers where to stand.
Jamie secured the cafe through FHP Property Consultants.
Associate director Oliver Marshall said: “It’s great to see a new venture start strongly and he has done an excellent job with the fit-out with a concept that the surrounding area was missing. I’m sure with his experienced background No. 18 will thrive for years to come.
“We are seeing a surge in demand for shops in neighbourhood schemes like St Wilfrid’s Square. The combination of good parking facilities and local convenience make the shopping and cafe experience easy for customers who during the current time might not be venturing further afield.”