Inverness cafe set to open tea room and gift shop at cathedral
A popular Inverness bakehouse and cantina is set to open a tea room and gift shop at Inverness Cathedral.
XOKO will transform the Cathedral Hall, previously known as Cafe Ness, into a traditional tea room with an accompanying gift shop, which is set to open at the end of June.
Tristan Aitchison, co-owner of XOKO, said: “XOKO and Inverness Cathedral are a match made in heaven. Both have community, and progressive values, at their heart. We are looking forward to opening a venue for everybody.
“From tea and scones to lavish afternoon teas, we hope it will be the place for families and friends to meet, enjoy freshly baked XOKO treats and even ‘spill the tea’.”
The business, which currently has a premises on Bridge Street, will make a significant investment in renovating the historic cathedral hall, which originally was a boys’ school.
XOKO will also operate the takeaway coffee kiosk situated in the cathedral grounds by the River Ness.
Very Revd Sarah E Murray and Provost of Inverness Cathedral said: “At the heart of Inverness Cathedral is welcome and hospitality, a place where all are accepted. We are truly delighted to be partnering with Tristan and Fernando from XOKO to bring the same values to the tea room and kiosk at the Cathedral.
“We look forward to developing this partnership and to seeing the whole team bring a warm XOKO welcome at the Cathedral and the cultural quarter of Inverness.”
Fernando Basaldua Bazaldua, co-owner and head baker at XOKO, added: “It’s going to be a different offering from our bakehouse in the city centre. We will focus on traditional bakes with the XOKO edge.
“We will also create an afternoon tea that we think will be the perfect accompaniment to any celebration. This Mexican is going to have to learn the art of scones!”
Kimberly Vasquez, XOKO Manager said: “The vibe will be friendly and warm. We are aiming for it to be a little calmer than our Bridge Street cantina.”
Emma Harrison of Visit Loch Ness and Inverness said: “XOKO has become a much-loved name in the local food and drink scene, and their commitment to excellence and creativity continues to set them apart.
“This next step is a fantastic reflection of their ambition and success. We have every confidence that Tristan, Fernando, and the entire team will bring their signature flair and energy to the Cathedral Tea Room.
“We wish them all the very best in this exciting new venture and look forward to their continued contribution to Inverness’s vibrant food and drink offering.”
