HISTORIC Greenock Cafe Premises Back In Business
THE former Orangefield Cafe building in Greenock has re-opened with a new operator.
Greenock entrepreneur Billy Gray and his family have taken a long-term lease for the property, renaming it Café Gray.
The much-loved Holmscroft Street café dates back to the 1920s, with long-time operator Dino Pieri retiring in 2013.
Billy has left his role as transport and delivery manager at Aulds the Bakers after 14 years to run the cafe alongside his wife, Charmayne, and their two daughters who will be in charge of the day-to-day running of the business.
Billy and Charmayne have been operating their Gourock Bakers business successfully for the past six years and Billy has enjoyed a varied career in the hospitality industry, previously operating fish and chip shops, outside catering, and various retail operations.
He said: “We are delighted to finally open the café and see this as a natural progression for the business following the success of the Gourock Bakers over the past few years.
“For it to be based at such a local landmark is fantastic, and everything just felt right about the location and the opportunity with great footfall from locals, trades, and school children.
“We will be providing for both sit-in and takeaway with lunchtime daily specials, fish and chips, curries, lasagne, and all of the local favourites including burgers, pies, sausage rolls, and bridies.
“Given my background, we’ll have a selection of cakes and scones, as well as an extensive list of Italian ice cream available, including traditional vanilla, strawberry, chocolate, and iron brew.
“We’re grateful to Bowman Rebecchi for their help so far and look forward to opening to the public.”
Local commercial property services firm Bowman Rebecchi acted as the letting agent on behalf of the owner. Director, Andrew Bowman said: “We are delighted to have been able to support Billy with his aims and we wish him and his family every success with the new venture.
“It is great to see this historic Greenock café coming back into operation, and with Billy’s career and experience, we expect the café to become very popular.
“Bowman Rebecchi continues to receive a high level of interest in commercial sites across Inverclyde, in spite of the ongoing challenging conditions.”
Café Gray will be open seven days a week, from 8am to 6pm from Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm on Saturdays and 8am until 3pm on Sundays, with the hours to be extended during the summer months.
