A new café in Birmingham is turning heads with its promise to be “cheaper than Pret and faster than Greggs.” The Rosetta Lounge, a chic neighborhood bakery and café, recently opened its doors on Harborne High Street, taking over the space formerly occupied by Joe Richards greengrocer. The café’s unique concept and affordable pricing have already made a significant impact, with queues forming out the door during its opening weekend.
The Birth of Rosetta Lounge
The Rosetta Lounge, which debuted earlier this month following a £100,000 refurbishment, is the brainchild of Dan O’Reilly. O’Reilly, who also owns the popular Japanese kitchen and bar Koi Ki, located just across the road, saw an opportunity when he noticed a “for sale” sign in the area. His vision was clear: to create a café experience that combines affordability with speed, offering an alternative to the big chains that often come with long wait times.
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A Mission to Stand Out
Dan O’Reilly explained the inspiration behind Rosetta Lounge: “I was standing in Koi Ki one day, which has become a very successful restaurant, and saw the agents’ signs going up across the road. I went straight over and made an offer. We love Harborne – it’s one of the best high streets in the country, in my opinion.”
O’Reilly’s goal for Rosetta Lounge is to provide customers with a quick and budget-friendly option that outperforms established brands like Pret and Greggs. He noted that many customers are frustrated with the long waits at large coffee chains when they simply want a fast, quality experience. Rosetta Lounge aims to address this by offering speedy service without compromising on quality or price.
Opening Weekend Success
The café’s debut was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from the local community. On its opening weekend, the Rosetta Lounge saw queues out the door, a testament to the demand for a café that offers both affordability and efficiency. The newly refurbished space, with its modern décor and inviting atmosphere, has already become a favorite spot for locals looking for a quick coffee or a leisurely pastry break.
The Harborne High Street Advantage
Harborne High Street is known for its vibrant mix of independent shops, eateries, and cafes. The addition of Rosetta Lounge only adds to the appeal of this bustling area. O’Reilly’s belief in the potential of Harborne as one of the best high streets in the country is reflected in the success of both Koi Ki and now Rosetta Lounge. The café is poised to become a staple in the neighborhood, offering something different from the typical high street options.
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Conclusion
Rosetta Lounge is quickly establishing itself as a go-to destination in Birmingham for those seeking quality, affordability, and fast service. With its prime location on Harborne High Street, a strong community presence, and a clear mission to offer something better than the big chains, Rosetta Lounge is set to thrive. As word spreads about this new café, the queues out the door are likely to continue, solidifying its place as a local favorite.
