A new deli bar which has opened in Braintree town centre is giving a shop window to local food producers and helping in the fight against climate change.
Chairman of Braintree District Council, Cllr Andrew Hensman, officially opened The Phoenix, in Bank Street, on Saturday, 2 July, and heralded the owners’ efforts to encourage customers to shop local.
The Phoenix is a family-owned coffee shop, deli and bar and once running at full capacity will create 11 new jobs within the town while reviving a unit that has stood empty for the past two years.
Phil Poulter is one of the group of six owners and he said: “Bringing a deli to Braintree was something we wanted to do. We are keen to reduce food miles by stocking local produce.
“Shopping local is a win for everyone so we are giving local producers a chance to showcase their products.”
The Phoenix stocks items from Braintree Street Market regulars Sticky Pickle Company and Mad Mike’s Chilli Jam, as well as Bishop Nick ales and Big Bear Cider Mill ciders.
They have a range of products from Wilkin & Sons from Tiptree and the world-famous Rossi Ice Cream from Rochford.
Logan Schwingen, 24, is manager of The Phoenix and he recommends customers try the salt beef bagel at lunch, or the full English if they are dining earlier in the day.
The bar has an alcohol licence and will be opening on Friday and Saturday nights, with small plate tapas-style food options being introduced in the near future.
Cllr Andrew Hensman, Chairman of Braintree District Council, said: “It was an honour to officially open The Phoenix on Saturday and see an empty shop within the town centre brought back to life.
“I was delighted to see so many local products for sale, not only does this celebrate our local producers - it also reduces the food miles and supports our local economy.”
We are offering support to The Phoenix and other new businesses opening within the district to ensure they have the best chance of succeeding.
You can find The Phoenix on Instagram at @the_phoenix_braintree and Facebook