Friends who followed dream to launch cafe in prime Northampton location are ‘proud’ of how far they have already come in six months
Two friends, who followed their dream to launch a cafe in Northampton and did not return to work following their maternity leave, are “really proud” of how far they have already come in six months.
Anna Bajda and Anita Kaminsa are the founders and owners of Amica Cafe, which they run as a pair on Latchet Lane.
They opened the venue at the end of November last year, which was around the time they were both due to return to work following maternity leave. When they found out the unit they now run was available, they knew it was their chance to launch a venture of their own.
Anita is a professional pastry chef and has worked with desserts for years, including artistic celebration cakes. Anna has worked in hospitality for most of her life, with a constant connection to food and customer service.
Together, they have created a warm and welcoming place where people visit for quality coffee, food and desserts and to relax in a friendly atmosphere.
Their menu spans breakfasts, lunches, desserts and specialty coffees. Their current bestsellers are crushed avocado and the classic English breakfast.
Comforting roast dinners are now available on Sundays and the team also host and organise children’s birthday parties, private celebrations, business meetings and offer catering services.
Reflecting on their first six months open, Anna told the Chronicle & Echo: “We honestly don't know where the time has gone. It feels like we only opened yesterday. We're really proud of how far we've come.
“As with any new business, there have been busy days and quieter moments, especially during the recent hot weather. When the sun is shining, people don't rush out for a hot coffee or hot chocolate, but that's all part of running a cafe and we’ve learned to adapt.”
The pair feel they have had a “very positive start” and are “incredibly grateful” for the ongoing support from new and existing customers.
Anna and Anita have continued to develop their menu around the seasons, including the popular additions of smoothies, refreshing cold drinks and new waffle toppings during the warmer months.
“Feedback has been really encouraging,” Anna continued. “People often tell us they come back because of the delicious food, welcoming atmosphere and friendly service. Creating a place where customers feel comfortable and looked after has always been our goal.
“What makes Amica Cafe different is that we’re two friends who shared a dream of creating a cafe where people feel comfortable, welcome and looked after. We care about the little details, we love chatting with our customers, and we always want people to leave with a smile.”
Anna and Anita believe their cafe has the potential to be a successful and long-standing business in the town, and they want everyone to know they are not just open to cater for Foxfields residents – everyone is welcome.
The team is always looking for ways to make the cafe even better and they are excited to introduce themed Saturdays, when the cafe will stay open later than usual and a special menu will be offered just for those evenings.
Amica Cafe will be closed for the team to take a much-needed two-week break from the end of August until the start of September.
“It will give us a chance to recharge, reflect on the past few months and work on some exciting new ideas and improvements,” said Anna. “We’re looking forward to coming back with fresh energy and a few surprises for our customers.”