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Islay Coffee & Cake opens in Teddington
11 March 2019
Islay Coffee & Cake is a new independent cafe opening in April in the old Mela Mela shop on Teddington High Street. Islay is planning to open further stores in South West London but Teddington will be the birthplace of the brand.
We caught up with Ekrem Utku, one of the partners behind Islay Coffee & Cake for a insight into the cafe brand.
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Islay takes inspiration from Teddington itself. Ideally located alongside the River Thames, Teddington has always been like a hidden island. Teddington Lock and the splendid Bushy Park provide sanctuaries away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether it's to read a book in peace or meet with friends for a catch up with a coffee... Islay represents Teddington's uniqueness.
Islay has two partners. Ekrem has a background of 17 years in retail industry and has worked as the CEO of a retailers association of food and non-food retail. Basri has been an entrepreneur for more than 20 years and alongside the health sector where he worked as a doctor he has experience of running a cafe brand. Their head chef is Tumay who will put the emphasis on pastries and cakes. Her preference of healthy and fresh Mediterranean food will also provide a selection of new tastes to Teddington.
Ekrem and Basri are local residents of Teddington so they know the expectations and priorities of the community. This is why Islay will be a meeting point for mums with babies, students who pop in after school and for local businesses to have meetings.
Islay has a simple but delicious menu which will provide residents with a diverse range of options. They look forward to Introducing Turkish coffee which will be served with a piece of Turkish delight and a new selection of linden tea which are derived from the linden trees of Bushy Park. Cold lemonade and strawberry juice, with their healthy features, will certainly attract young visitors.
Islay will also offer residents of Teddington new breakfast options at the weekend. Alongside the traditional English breakfast and the Belgian breakfast with delicious pain au chocolat, Islay will also offer a Mediterranean breakfast with a selection of cheeses and olives. Croissants will be available in the mornings but with a different look. Pastries with olives or feta cheese are the new choices. Vegans and vegetarians will not be disappointed with specialities such as lentil balls, Turkish quiche made with courgette and a variety of delicious salads.
Let’s not forget their extensive range of cakes and cheesecakes - they're British strawberry Cheesecake is a must!
The cafe provides several lovely seating islands for the visitors. Four comfortable armchairs in front of the store window for those who wish to chat, several tables in front of the barista bar, two high tables and stools for those who want to eat and go. They will also have a long table at the rear of the store with a leather bench for larger groups. The colours of the cafe furniture reflect the liveliness and energy of the brand.
Islay wishes to be an island in Teddington, a place where people will spend quality time together.
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