A waterside cafe with sunset views is celebrating one year in business by launching an evening supper club.
Waterside Cafe at Farmoor Reservoir has enjoyed 'a fantastic first year' since being take over by Rachel Blackie and has become "a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike, known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious menu" she said.
Ms Blackie previously owned the successful home bakery Roo's Kitchen in Witney which she started in 2021 after leaving a decades-long career in teaching to pursue her true passion.
She said: "We are thrilled to celebrate our first anniversary with our incredible community.
“Being slightly out of Oxford and new to the hospitality industry, the journey has sometimes been lonely and isolating. However, it has also been incredibly rewarding.
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"Every day I've learned something new, and the support from other small businesses and our brilliant relationships with our suppliers has been a lifeline during our first year.
"Their encouragement and support have been invaluable, and I'm truly grateful to be part of such a supportive community.
"I'm excited about what's next."
As well as the supper club, Ms Blackie is planning more collaborations with other food businesses and has recently bought a horsebox trailer to serve takeaway coffee.
The venue has also become a Chatty Cafe, supporting a charity that encourages conversations to reduce loneliness.
But she said she is "particularly proud" that she continues to make all the cakes and traybakes for the cafe.
"My apple Dorset cake has become known as the 'house special,' and on many weekends, we've completely sold out because people love it so much," she said.
"It's wonderful to continue doing what I love and to see the cafe now recognised for its great homemade produce."
The first supper club is a collaboration with Tikka and Tadka is a local independent business specialising in authentic Indian cuisine with rich flavours and quality ingredients.
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Guests will enjoy "a meticulously crafted three-course Indian meal prepared by Tikka and Tadka with the picturesque backdrop of the reservoir and the potential for a stunning sunset to enhance the evening", she said.
"We are thrilled to celebrate our first anniversary with our incredible community.
"Partnering with Tikka and Tadka for our very first Evening Supper Club is the perfect way to mark this milestone. We look forward to sharing an unforgettable evening with everyone.
"This supper club is a way to say thank you and celebrate the journey together."
The supper club will be held on Saturday August 31, 7 - 9pm. Only 40 tickets are available – book early to avoid disappointment. Tickets can be purchased via this link
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