Owners ‘overwhelmed’ as new independent cafe in Finedon opens to 'wonderfully warm welcome'
Vaarista has opened its doors in Irthlingborough Road, Finedon, bringing its beloved coffee and baked goods to the brand’s first bricks and mortar store.
Vaarista is the newest venture from the owners of the Market Street Bakery in Higham Ferrers, who also currently occupy a space at Rushden Lakes with the Vaarista mobile bakery and coffee bar.
The opening of the Finedon space on May 30 will serve to bring all of its offerings under one roof.
Bosses have called the support ‘incredibly humbling.’
Taz Sandhu, owner of Vaarista, said: “Our official opening day was Saturday, May 30, although we quietly opened our doors two days earlier to allow our new team to train together and become familiar with the store.
"The plan was simply to serve the occasional passer-by while the team settled in, but word quickly spread on social media and what were intended to be training days soon became busy trading days.
“The response to our Finedon store has been nothing short of phenomenal.
"We experienced constant queues throughout the opening weekend and the momentum has continued into the week. We have been overwhelmed by the support, kindness and encouragement shown by local residents.
“What has been particularly rewarding is that, despite being open for less than a week, we are already seeing repeat customers returning and becoming familiar with our products. That level of support so early on has been incredibly humbling.”
The space, which was formerly a fish and chip shop, has been completely overhauled and now features an all-new aesthetic and decor, as well as space for seating and a counter filled with a range of baked goods, from savoury sausage rolls and bread goods, to sweet treats, doughnuts and more.
Drinks include the staple coffee options, as well as machas, smoothies, ice-tea and milkshakes.
Moving forward, Vaarista will be open Monday through to Saturday from 7am until 7pm and Sunday from 8am to 4pm.
Taz added: “The community has given us a wonderfully warm welcome and it has been a fantastic start to life in Finedon. It also highlights the important role that independent local businesses play within their communities and equally how vital community support is to the success of local businesses.
"We are extremely grateful for the reception we have received and look forward to becoming a long-term part of the town."