Agnieszska Krol and councillor Iris Andersen at the cheque presentation
Grilling experience as café collects second boost
An all-American themed café in Andover has been presented with their second instalment of a grant courtesy of Test Valley Borough Council.
Grilled Cheese Café Ltd was previously set up in The Mall, on Bridge Street, in 2018 by founders Agnieszska Krol and Anna Knyzanowska. The pair have been friends since childhood and decided to set up the café after being convinced that an American theme would suit the town from Agnieszska’s US partner.
Now, the café has found a new home at 4, Bridge Street, and has collected their second £500 of an Independent Retailer Grant.
Agnieszska said: “We’ve loved every minute so far, serving the people of Andover. Everyone is incredibly friendly and are so welcoming. The advice that we received from the council has been fantastic and in our new home on Bridge Street, we’re really going from strength to strength.”
Ward member Iris Andersen, added: “Both Anna and Agnieszska have shown tremendous entrepreneurship in getting their café off the ground over the past year. The café is extremely welcoming and I know I’m not the only fan in the town! It’s something really different and I’m pleased that the council has been able to support a business like this.”
Recipients of the £1,000 grant first receive £500 after three months of trading and a further £500 six months later. To be eligible for the grant, new or existing independent businesses must occupy a town centre ground floor unit which has been vacant for at least one month.
Qualifying businesses include shops, restaurants and cafes. These funds have become available to the community as a consequence of the council’s prudent investments, financial management and use of the New Homes Bonus.