Dynamic café bar in Cardiff Bay, operated by best friends, fostering community spirit while offering an exquisite culinary experience.
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In the heart of Cardiff Bay, a new café bar is capturing attention. Lifelong friends Fern Tregoning and Eran Kenny have channeled their creativity into a venue that offers more than just coffee. Former managers at Esquires Coffee, they sought to escape the limitations of corporate chains and create a space that embodies their shared values and passions.
From corporate to community
After years in the hospitality industry, both Fern and Eran sought a new direction. Eran articulated their motivation: “While being part of a chain has its perks, we found that the ability to curate our offerings and respond to community needs aligns more closely with our values.” Their goal is to develop a café that feels like home—a welcoming space for everyone.
Building a neighborhood hub
Since opening, the café has garnered an enthusiastic response from the community. The owners have received numerous congratulatory notes from loyal customers and have become a favored meeting spot for local running clubs. “It’s wonderful to see our café serving as a hub for community activities,” said Eran.
Fern added, “Collaborating with someone I’ve known for so long to create something we love is a rare opportunity, and so far, we haven’t had any disagreements!”
This new café bar features an extensive menu that caters to diverse tastes and dietary needs. Options include delicious brunch items made with locally sourced ingredients. Highlights include fluffy pancakes, hearty crumpets, and the signature full breakfast and full vegetarian meals, both served with crispy potato rosti. For lunch, patrons can enjoy favorites such as jacket potatoes, vibrant salads, and flavorful huevos rancheros.
Emphasizing inclusivity and sustainability
Fern and Eran have designed their menu with inclusivity at its core. “We wanted to ensure that everyone can find something they enjoy when they visit,” Fern stated. Reducing food waste is another priority for the café. By streamlining their offerings, they minimize excess food that would otherwise go uneaten. Additionally, they have ensured their drinks menu is versatile, providing non-alcoholic versions of their cocktails. This allows visitors to enjoy a refreshing drink at any time of day.
More than just food and drink
Beyond culinary delights, Fern and Eran are dedicated to fostering a sense of community. They are launching various initiatives, including a book club, craft events, and wine tastings, aimed at engaging the local population. They are also actively selecting charities to support, reinforcing their commitment to the community’s well-being.
With sustainability at the core of their operations, the friends prioritize sourcing local products and utilizing second-hand furniture. Fern noted, “We’ve sourced all our furnishings from local flea markets or online platforms like Facebook Marketplace. We believe in giving back to the community by reviving pre-loved items instead of purchasing new.”
Operating hours and future plans
Full Fat Social operates from 8 AM to 7 PM Sunday through Thursday, and extends its hours until 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. Looking ahead, both Fern and Eran are enthusiastic about the opportunities for their café bar. They aim to expand their offerings and deepen their connection with the Cardiff Bay community.
Full Fat Social is not just another café bar; it embodies a vision of community and flavor. This establishment aims to create memorable experiences for its visitors. Whether patrons are stopping by for a morning coffee, enjoying a leisurely brunch, or savoring a glass of wine in the evening, Full Fat Social is set to be a delightful addition to Cardiff Bay.
