Rising costs blamed as popular independent Harrogate cafe shuts its doors for the final time

The Deli Bar Cafe at 23 Regent Parade, Harrogate had managed to survive the Covid pandemic and all its challenges.

But what was one of Harrogate’s most popular independent cafes has fallen victim to the unrelentingly harsh climate for small traders in today’s economic landscape.

Owner Jason Evans had dreamt of owning a cafe since he was a small boy and leapt on the chance to take over the existing business in early 2024.

He quickly invested in a refurbishment of the Deli Bar with new modern styling.

But the ongoing era of high costs no matter what direction you turn, has forced him to take the very difficult decision to shut the cafe he loves.

"This is such a heartbreaking thing to have to do,” said Jason, who is also a software engineer.

"We had such a great first year or two and my regular customers were so lovely.

"I would have kept the cafe open forever if I could but the costs situation keeps on getting harder.

"I was feeling positive at the end last year but and footfall has also been challenging this year.”

The Deli Bar cafe first opened in 2006 under previous owner Darren Winder in 2006 and his trusty 'first lieutenant" Hayley Francis and became popular with local tradespeople, in particular.

Facing the The Devonshire Tap House pub on the busy Skipton Road, new owner Jason came in to maintain its reputation for hot deli dishes, fresh ‘bean to cup’ coffees, fresh sandwiches and sausages rolls.

He faced a range of obstacles but, buoyed by a hard-working team, he was keen to continue.

Jason said he was grateful for how hard, Andrew and the team worked, particularly in recent months.

Under Andrew's guidance over the last five months, the Deli Bar transformed itself from a previously low Health and Safety score to an amazing 5*

Jason also paid tribute to Jess, Charli, Ethan, Katie and Sophie for working so hard to keep things going.