South Street Coffee Bar and Lounge has opened on Southend’s London Road after a £1.3m investment, with the operator dedicating an entire floor to gaming and entertainment. 

The venue features a baby grand piano in the foyer and an upstairs games area with pool, darts, pinball, and retro arcade machines.

“It’s not a pub, or a coffee house, or a sports bar, it’s a destination,” remarked co-owner June Leitch to the Southend Echo.

“We want people to think of this as the new place to go to, and independent places are where people should be going,” her business partner Cameron Leitch-Adams added.

The grand opening featured a special visit from Nigel Folkard, Mayor of Southend, who delivered a speech to officially inaugurate the venue and welcome the public.

“This new venue represents more than just a place to enjoy great food and drink, it stands as a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit and community values that make Southend such a vibrant and inclusive city,” he said. “I’m delighted to see local businesses like this investing in our city centre, contributing to its growth and character, and I wish the team every success in this exciting new chapter – may it thrive and become a cherished part of our community.”

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