Charcuterie adds to food scene
BRAY: An award-winning charcuterie seller that has so far mainly operated out of markets and online has a new shop in Bray.
Bray Cured sells hand-cured ‘rare-breed’ meats, as well as seasonal charcuteries boards, including fruits, cheese and breads or crackers.
It has one and two star ratings (out of three) from the Great Taste Awards 2021 and 2022.
For the new shop in Thames House on Bray High Street, Bray Cured has applied for an alcohol licence, so that it can sell wines alongside the food.
Founder Alex Mugan said that one of the selling points is how locally the products are being made.
“Bray has a reputation for high quality food. People come into Bray for food experiences and we’re adding to that,” he said. “The biggest differentiation is how close by everything is. The charcuterie is being made less than a mile away, with local accompaniment by us and by other providers – like coffee from Holyport.
“Nothing has been made by big businesses and most stuff is coming from within 5-10 miles or in some cases, less.
“It’s a chance to showcase local products – we know the people who are making this food,” he said.
Bray Cured will also serve the function of a community shop or ‘village pantry’, while creating a sense of community.
“You can get a takeaway board or a starter for a meal – and you can get a bottle of milk as well,” said Alex.
“We’re focused on old school sharing,” said Alex.
“Charcuterie is something people get together for and give as gift and bringing a bit of hospitality into is a really nice thing to be able to do. We’re reasonably relaxed – this is relaxed food to be eaten in a relaxed, simple way. It’s back to the basics of food – good wine, good meat and good cheese.”
Bray Cured is open 10am-8pm every day from Wednesday, November 23.