By Matthew Legg Business editor

Last updated at 14:28, Monday, 08 February 2010

A Cumbrian coffee shop boss who saw his business destroyed in the floods has bounced back to launch a new venture.

John Graham

John Graham plans to open Merienda, a coffee shop, cafe, bar and restaurant, in Treasury Court, Carlisle, on Friday.

The intrepid entrepreneur pressed ahead with the expansion despite seeing the Cockermouth branch of Merienda ruined in last November’s devastating floods.

Repair work is underway at the Station Street premises and it is hoped it will reopen later this year.

“It’s been a very difficult time, but I was committed to opening in Carlisle and I never thought about backing out, despite the floods,” said Mr Graham. “I will be pleased when everything’s sorted, I might be able to get a night’s sleep!”

The Carlisle branch is modelled on the successful Cockermouth format and features cool, minimalist decor and an impressive glass extension.

Through the day it will serve sandwiches, soups, stews and platters, plus takeaway food and coffee.

There are plans eventually for the business to transform into a bar and restaurant at night, with a tapas menu and live bands at weekends.

All food will be locally produced and coffee comes from the Square Mile coffee company, a London-based business run by former Keswick man James Hoffmann.

Mr Graham says he is not daunted by having to take on worldwide coffee giants Costa and Starbucks, just a stone’s throw away.

“We think we are offering something unique to Cumbria,” said Mr Graham, who lives at St Bees.

“Costa and Starbucks do their thing, which they are great at, but we concentrate more on quality and customer service.

“I can’t wait to get started. Carlisle is a great city which is expanding and growing; we have always had our eye on coming here.

“I think Cumbria in general is more open to new ideas now and people are more demanding about what they want.

“The recession has affected all businesses, but coffee shops are doing better than others. It certainly hasn’t held us back.”

First published at 11:24, Monday, 08 February 2010
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk