We asked Recorder readers to name their favourite cafe – and the results can now be revealed.
The Recorder runs a monthly competition for readers to name their favourite businesses in different categories throughout the year.
This month's competition celebrates the people who serve the tasty
breakfasts, lunches, teas and coffees, and make a welcoming place to meet up with friends.
After a public vote ending on May 10, we can now announce that Coffee Bloom Café in Upminster was the winner.
Husband and wife Nick and Sherife Djenan set up the company more than five years ago after leaving their jobs in big companies to try somthing different together as a family business.
With the aim of running a small, independent, quality and welcoming environment, they offer a large menu from breakfast, lunch and brunch, including speciality coffees, premium teas and freshly prepared smoothies and shakes.
Company director Sherife Djenan said: “We at Coffee Bloom Café would like to start off by thanking all of our customers for your nominations. We truly appreciate you all for your continuous support throughout these years, not to mention our team of staff who work hard and support us each and every day.
"It is a true honour to have been selected as a winner amongst some strong cafes within the borough of Havering.
"Winning this competition has given us the opportunity and confidence to plan and invest further to improve our customers' experience.
"As many can relate, we have experienced some very difficult times with Covid – 19 and the cost of living crisis, in particular the hospitality sector has suffered some testing times.
"We feel humbled that our customers have stuck by us and continued to support us and be loyal during these times.
"We would also like to thank the Romford Recorder for organising the ‘Your Favourite Awards’ competition for businesses, as it gives shops much needed additional recognition."
The winners of the competition receive a cash donation from the Recorder's parent company Newsquest, which is given to a charity of their choice.
Coffee Bloom nominated St Frances Hospice, based in St Marys Lane, Upminster, which cares for people with life-limiting illnesses as the recipient of its donation.
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