A popular York café has re-opened under new ownership following a brief closure over the summer.
Rae and Webb at 74 Gillygate is now owned by Shaun and Kelly Metcalfe.
They took over from Simon and Barbara Haddock, who had operated the venture for seven years.
The Haddocks had announced on social media: “The time is now right for us to start our next adventure” as their children were at university.
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They thanked everyone for their loyalty over the years and wished Shaun and Kelly the best of luck.
Shaun has spent 20 years in hospitality, previously working at The Kitchen in Osbaldwick.
He told the Press: “You get to a point in life where you need to do it, to run your own business, and get on with things.”
After months of searching for a venue and signing contracts for the busy city centre location, the café re-opened just over a month ago.
While much remains the same, Shaun has put his own stamp on the cafe with his homemade sausage rolls and signature bakes.
“We also have a variety of sandwiches and toasties. We also have two lovely girl who work for us- Georgia and Tia.”
Shaun reports a fantastic welcome from the Gillygate community and is enjoying getting to know his regular customers.
“It’s steady every day. We are never quiet we are never too busy. Lunchtimes are out busiest as people come in for sandwiches, coffee, soups and toasties.”
Shaun plans a revamp in the New Year, aiming to give it a modern and fresher look.
He added: “But for now I am focussing on finding our feet and getting through the Christmas period. We are the perfect stop before or after shopping to warm up with a hot drink or a bowl of homemade soup."
Either way, the recipe seems to be working, with the café receiving 4.5 stars out of five on the reviews website TripAdvisor, ranking it 49 out of 186 for Quick Bites in York.
Out of 57 reviews, 41 said it was excellent, 11 very good, just one said poor and no-one said terrible.
The Restaurant Guru website reports Rae and Webb has 4.8 stars out of five from Google, ranking it 10th out of 898 cafes in York.
Paula Beaumont posted a month ago: “Delicious scrambled eggs on toast, and excellent crispy bacon. Coffee is superb.”
Polly Yates said: “My favourite cafe in York! They do the best millionaire shortbread, and the owner is so lovely and welcoming!”
Chloe Pallister praised the café on Facebook for its “best coffee, cosy atmosphere and delicious sandwiches.”
She added: “Excellent food - the homemade chorizo sausage roll is just divine! An excellent location and the staff are warm and welcoming! All that and reasonably priced - highly recommended- we’ll be back!”
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