In the two years since it’s been open Edith’s House has established itself as a favourite on the High Street, so it was no surprise that its many fans were saddened at the prospect that it might close down. What good news, and smiles all around, that the business will be staying put.
Owners Michael and Eaton took on the premises in the knowledge that it might be a short-term project and, as actors who had never run a business before, they looked at it as a dress rehearsal. They were surprised at the impact their business with its colourful façade had on the High Street, as well as it’s immediate popularity with the local community. Now that their lease has been extended it looks like this show will run and run.
Having fallen in love with Rye while on holiday the guys wanted to open a business that would be as comfortable and welcoming as each of their grandmother’s houses. Combine this clever idea with a lot of hard work, bundles of energy and a commitment to customer service that is second to none, and the result is a very successful business. Edith’s House has wonderful coffees, teas and smoothies and a tempting selection of delicious cakes and light lunches eg brie, bacon and grape open sandwiches. They also serve mouth-watering scones in all sorts of flavours including cinnamon, almond and white chocolate, with a range of different preserves and jams. Lime marmalade is recommended with coconut scones and ginger preserve goes perfectly with their honey scones. Both keen bakers their fare is always freshly baked. and they offer cake and bread that is gluten free. They like to make seasonal cakes and are currently planning their Halloween special.
But it’s not just the food that keeps their customers happy: the place is friendly with a relaxed atmosphere and a high level of customer service that reflects their ethic of always doing the best they can. Michael describes their policy as retail theatre and come rain or shine the show always goes on. Like any good production they have a stalwart support team of Beth, some of whose paintings adorn the walls, Fleur, Jane, Liz, Lucy and Steve as well as additional staff at the weekend. And presiding over the premises is Roux, a three and a half year old French bulldog, who is as popular with customers as the food and drinks.
Eaton’s nan Edith, after whom the shop is named, is 94 and lives some distance away so has never been to the shop, but thanks to modern technology she has had a virtual tour and has given the place her seal of approval. And why wouldn’t she – this place is a gem and let’s hope the production runs for as long as Agatha Christies’s Mousetrap. Take a bow boys, take a bow.
Edith’s House is open from 10am to 5pm every day except Tuesdays, has free wifi and can be followed on twitter.
Photos: Tony McLaughlin