Bournemouth man opens a new café, Blend On The Hill

Blend on The Hill is opening on Richmond Hill, Bournemouth, providing a space for ‘anyone and everyone.’

Ben Blades has worked in the hospitality industry for over ten years and decided to use his wealth of experience to open his very own café.

The 26-year-old was born in Barbados but has lived and worked in Bournemouth for most of his life.

He used to have a small coffee van and would go to festivals across the south coast.

Last year, Ben returned to Barbados, where he ran a coffee shop which inspired him to take on the challenge of opening his own business.

He said: I have always been drawn to Bournemouth. I like the buzz and energy of the town.”

Blend is opening inside the Bournemouth Echo building, where Ben previously opened his van to customers outside the same office space.

Ben would like his café to be a hub for people wanting to relax, socialise, study and work.

He said: “It is important to build a relationship with my customers.

“You tend to see the same people every day. Naturally, you get to know them.

“I am very grateful we got repeat business, and I really do appreciate them, so it is important to remember their name or at least their coffee order.”

The café will be open to the public on Saturday, January 27, from 8am to 3pm.

Following its launch, Blend will be open Monday to Friday from 7am to 3pm and from 8am to 3pm on Saturdays.

Coffee, fresh smoothies, milkshakes, and pastries are some of the products that will be on offer.

Ben emphasised that there will be food and drinks to accommodate everyone, including a range of gluten-free and vegan products.

He has partnered with a Bournemouth-based business, Green Label Kitchen, which supplies 100 per cent vegan produce to cafés and restaurants in the local area.

Blend on The Hill's coffee is sourced from Bournemouth's local Bad Hand Coffee. 

The venue also has a small kitchen space, and Ben aspires to introduce a ‘creative’ brunch menu in the near future.