Breezes Combines Coffee, Surf and Art To Blow Away the Recession

July 2, 2012 by J Wade

At a time when so many businesses are struggling it may not have seemed wise to open a small cafe overlooking the coastal village of Hill Head. However, this did not deter Maria Lewis, who has combined her love of art, beach culture and great food to create Breezes Cafe.

Maria set up Breezes Cafe with the help of a £1,000 Government grant. Since opening it has created 12 new local jobs and provides additional business to 30 local suppliers who provide a range of ingredients for the cafe, bistro and delicatessen. The delicious New Forest Ice Cream is available from the cafe.

Art Gallery and Website

As well as selling food and drinks Breezes also showcases paintings and photography from local artists. Maria has even set up an online store to sell art work over the Internet.

Maria says that the main secret to her success is the excellent guidance she has received from Sue Warden-Owen. Sue is a business consultant with MHL Coaching in Warsash. With the help of MHL Maria, was able to set achievable goals and make new business relationships to help realise her business potential.

Breezes has become popular with a wide range of people, from local artists to surfers looking for some refreshment, as well as passing parents who often stop off on their way back from doing the school run.

The cafe offers a selection of hearty meals (the butternut squash and red pepper soup is recommended), snacks, tea and coffee. Afternoon tea with a slice of the popular Breezes Victoria Sponge is a real treat. The deli sells a selection of cheeses, beer, herbs and spices. In the evening the bistro serves an a la carte menu. The bistro is currently open 3 nights a week from Thursday to Saturday.

Breezes is located at 66-68 Hill Head Road, Fareham, Hampshire PO14 3JP. Telephone 01329 664141. Find out more about Breezes Cafe on their website; http://www.breezescafe.co.uk.