A NEW place to eat and drink has opened on Melksham’s High Street offering ‘gourmet coffee, irresistible teas and great food’ in a relaxed atmosphere.
The Gonjoo Cafe Bake House opened last week at 28 High Street (opposite the precinct). Owner Adil Gunco, who has 20 years’ experience of the catering industry and once made breakfast for ex-Prime Minister David Cameron, promises something for everyone on the cafe’s menu, including all-day breakfasts, a varied lunch menu, cakes and sweet treats, and hot and cold drinks.
Adil said, “We cater for all ages, and all appetites. And there are gluten-free options, and choices for vegetarians and vegans as well. We have completely transformed the cafe – and we have spaced out all the tables, so social distancing is possible. We also have quite a big garden out the back where people can sit and eat – it’s a great place to chill out.”
Gonjoo Cafe Bake House also offers a specialist cake service, and can cater for events, meetings and conferences.
“We can make cakes for all occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries,” said Adil. “And for anyone wanting to cater for a meeting or conference – we can provide the food. Just come in and speak to us for more information.”
“I had a very popular Turkish restaurant that was running for four years,” said Adil, “We had great reviews and were picked in 2019 as the best restaurant in Witney.”
About opening a new business in the middle of a global pandemic, Adil said, “It has been very stressful, I signed the lease 10 days before lockdown – so I was ineligible for support from the government as the business wasn’t active. So I was quite nervous and stressed – it was my responsibility to pay my rates. But my landlord has been very helpful and supportive.
“But since opening, the Melksham community has shown me that it was the right decision to open. The town has been so welcoming and I really appreciate everyone who has come to see us and support us. As a new person in town, that has meant a lot.”