Newark and Sherwood YMCA reveals opening date of new café at community and activity village

A new café is set to open it's doors to the public at the Newark YMCA next week.

The YMCA announced it will open it's flagship café next Monday (September 12) and will offer a range of seasonal, local produce on a menu crafted by a former Michelin star holding head chef, who has lived in Newark for 20 years.

The fully licensed café will sit at the heart of the YMCAs new community and activity village in Newark, providing a welcoming space for local residents to connect over food and drink at affordable prices.

All ingredients in the café are locally sourced and seasonal, with Nottinghamshire based company, Stewart's Coffees, supplying artisan coffee, speciality teas and hand-picked beverages.

All takeaway packaging will be fully compostable and biodegradable.

The space was designed by award-winning architecture firm Benoy — who are re-developing Nottingham Forest's City Ground.

Inspiration was taken from Newark’s industrial past to inform the design, with polished concrete floors, exposed ducting and corrugated iron panels.

This is complemented by a landscaped outdoor seating area designed by local landscape architects Influence, which overlooks the Stadia football pitch and includes a children’s play area.

Head chef, David Ross, brings over 30 years of experience and formerly held a Michelin star. He said: “We want the café to be the first port of call for our community, providing a space in which to gather, socialise and feel connected to those around you.

"We have carefully crafted a menu which changes throughout the year and champions our incredible local area and its suppliers, while still being affordable and accessible.

“Food brings people together, it creates conversations and brings a moment of joy to your day. We wanted to create a unique space that nourishes the mind, body and spirit."

The café will be run not-for-profit, with proceeds going back to the YMCA so they can continue working with young adults in the community.

There will also be an events space and function room with capacity for around 80 people, which can be hired for parties, business events, fundraisers, and match days.

The café will be open seven days a week and is open to the public and to anyone using the facilities at the village. Free WiFi will be available throughout.