How we are supporting businesses during COVID-19: Interview with Nolan, owner of Rise Cafe in Brockley

Nolan West opened Rise Café in 2018 offering a menu of freshly prepared food and drinks in relaxed hygge surrounds. It quickly became a firm favourite of locals in Honor Oak Park. We caught up with Nolan to find out how the council has supported him and how he has adapted his business during COVID-19.

How has COVID-19 affected your business?

The customers are different – we have a lot more people who are working from home who drop by during lunch time for a sandwich. It used to be mums who would come in with children for coffee in the mornings or dog walkers. It used to be quite a lively atmosphere outside but the fact we have had to shut the outdoor seating area means that that’s now changed.

We also now offer takeaway burgers in the evenings – it was something we had always planned to do and then the initial lockdown was announced.  They’ve gone down very well which is great, considering the times we are in.

How has the council supported you during COVID-19?

The council has been very supportive, especially in the first lockdown where we were stuck for two months. They were good at working everything out and we received our grant without any problems. The money I received, covered my costs for when the shop was shut and I felt the council communicated well through email updates. We even received a visit from the council which was very much appreciated.

How have you had to adapt your business?

We introduced burgers in the evenings during COVID-19 – we thought it would be a good takeaway option. It has worked very well and we have only had to adjust by buying more take away boxes, cups etc.

People don’t have to wait around very long as they can phone up and order prior to pick up and book their orders in advance.

People in the local area know us for offering sandwiches in the day time and burgers in the evenings. Friday and Saturday nights are usually busy as people tend to order more take away then.

We have also had to adapt by putting COVID-19 safety measures such as signage of 2 metre distancing, barriers of where people have to queue when waiting around for their orders and other notices to ensure everyone is safe. Usually people are quite responsible.

What are your tips on adapting business during COVID-19?

I would say adapt to the situation that you are in. Don’t supply things that you can’t takeaway – like a Sunday roast. People are looking for things they can take away quickly. As you can see, pizzas are doing well at the moment – I’d recommend thinking what is most convenient for the customer and adapt from there.

What are your plans for the future?

I look forward to opening up in the summer, we have just got our alcohol licence approved. We’re excited for people to be able to sit outside again and socialise with a drink while enjoying a great meal... There’s nothing better than watching our customers enjoy our food and themselves.

Looking further ahead, we might even open a second premises. It looks like a very strong possibility at the moment!

Visit Rise café on: 108 Brockley Rise, London SE23 1NH.

Find out more information on their website.