One of the nation’s most loved coffee chains is set to open a new cafe in Reading town centre.
Caffe Nero is gearing up to open in Broad Street in the unit previously occupied by Coco di Mama, which has been closed since March last year.
The coffee chain is known for serving up Americanos, mochas, sweet treats and its deli range, and it has had a strong presence in the town for years.
The cafe will be opening near the end of Broad Street between Sainsbury’s and the Butter Market.
The area of the town centre is already home to several cafes, including Pret a Manger, Gail’s bakery, Starbucks and Costa Coffee.
The fortunes of Caffe Nero in Reading have been up and down over the years.
The chain had cafes in Debenhams and House of Fraser in The Oracle before these department stores closed in 2020 and 2023 respectively.
Also, there was a Caffe Nero at the corner of Friar Street and Queen Victoria Street, until it was taken over by Black Sheep Coffee.
Ahead of opening, Nero Holdings Ltd applied for a street pavement cafe permit from Reading Borough Council, allowing it to take up part of Broad Street for an outdoor seating area.
A statutory consultation into the application is live until Friday, September 5. You can take part by emailing licensing@reading.gov.uk.
Caffe Nero has been contacted for a statement.
Pavement cafe permits cost £300 for two to six chairs, £350 for up to 10 chairs, and £500 for more than 10 chairs.
