New on the High Street: Bridge Deli

We’ve got a new shop on the High Street, where the Star + The Rose once was. Bridge Deli is a lovely-looking addition to the town and has attracted lots of attention. So we chatted to its owner to see what the plan was and what brought them to Tonbridge. What's Bridge Deli? What can people expect from the shop?

At Bridge Deli people can expect a wide range of interesting food provisions, cheeses, breads and pastries, and take away coffee, amongst many other things. The focus is on small independent producers where possible, and we are looking to source items that can't easily be found in supermarkets and to offer different and interesting high quality food items.

Tell us a little about yourselves, what's your background, how come you are doing this?

We are Sophie and Yuksel; my background is in corporate HR having worked in a wide variety of industries, and Yuksel has 18 years experience in hospitality, having opened five other businesses in this time. We met over 13 years ago when we were living in London. Five years ago our son was born and we moved to Kent, as I had grown up in Tunbridge Wells and thought it was a great place to raise our child.

What attracted you to Tonbridge?

We would come to Tonbridge with our son on the weekends as there was often something interesting going on, either a food festival, dragon boat race or an event at the Castle. When this shop became available we felt it was an opportunity to fulfil a dream to open a deli; it's a beautiful space and we loved the location so close to the bridge and the castle.

What do you think of Tonbridge High Street? What drew you to that location?

Tonbridge High Street has lots of independent shops and it appealed as we felt there would be space for our business among the existing ones, and that what we offer would complement the high street. We loved the location, opposite the castle and near the river.

Given it's just ahead of Christmas, are you doing anything particularly seasonal?

We have a range of panettones, panfortes and other sweet treats that are great for gifting. We've also got a fresh cheese counter with biscuits, relishes and pickles to complement. What's the best thing about the shop? The best thing about the shop is the heart and soul that we have poured into it! We really are passionate about what we do, and will strive to become an asset to Tonbridge residents (and beyond) and to add something new to the High Street. We've had such a warm welcome, we've been so touched by the positive feedback and can't wait to settle into the neighbourhood!