A Birkdale cafe and bar is embracing Southport’s new cafe culture by unveiling a stylish new outside area for customers.
Cafe Bar N’Ista, on Weld Road in the heart of Birkdale Village, has updated its facilities for diners so they can eat in comfort.
The move will help to keep the business operating amidst vastly reduced capacity due to social distancing, and to maintain the jobs of 15 local people.
The friendly venue is renowned for its breakfasts, lunches, Italian tapas (cecchetti) and its large selection of fine wines and cask ales.
Since the Covid-19 pandemic hit the UK in March, restaurants, cafes and bars in Southport have worked hard to remain open and trade while also ensuring that social distancing is maintained between customers.
Sefton Council has worked with businesses to provide flexibility to build ‘parklets’ so they can put decking and tables over parking space on roads, and to build temporary structures to provide vital, additional temporary space.
Cafe Bar N’Ista said: “After a long few days our outside area has been greatly improved as the original one was more of a ‘make do’ with not knowing the devastating impact COVID-19 would have on society in general.
“The new temporary structure allows us to do several things. These being
1) to try and keep Cafe Bar N’ista operating into 2021 and beyond by generating extra revenue due to a reduction of more than 50% capacity
2) keep 15 local residents in either full time or part time employment
3) allow those who are still apprehensive about going indoors a choice to be able to socialise whilst maintaining the safest approach / option for them.
4) allow all the rest who aren’t as apprehensive the opportunity to socialise in a warm friendly safe environment meeting friends and family whilst following all the Covid 19 guidelines.
“So to those who may think it’s not suitable for whatever reasons look at the bigger picture.
“We’re all trying to survive and we have to adapt. It may not be made of cast iron and have a fancy canopy but it works for now.
“You can get a pram or a motorised scooter on the pavement. It’s been measured and fulfils the criteria set out by Sefton Council who we are in talks with to resolve any issues.
“Thanks to all those who do support us in what we do and understand the reasoning behind it.
“Take care , be safe and most of all be kind.”
Cafe Bar N-Ista received a very positive response from local people.
Speaking on their Facebook page, one customer said: “Well I for one think it looks great. Cozy feel to it.
“It’s great to see you back open and making our village feel vibrant again. Love you guys and only wish you luck.”
Another said: “We were in earlier and enjoyed sitting in the new addition with a dog. Great idea!”
A supporter of the new look said: “I’m just happy to see businesses who are weathering the storm and surviving by being creative. People should be grateful that Birkdale is still thriving, thanks to the hard work and perseverance of local business owners. Well done. Looks lovely.”
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