Surbiton gains a Café Nero and loses one of its characters

Many Surbiton commuters will have noticed the new Café Nero on the London bound platform of the train station.  Café Nero, who already have a Surbiton presence in Victoria Road, have taken over from Café Chaud, who have run the three coffee outlets in the station for quite a few years.

At the same time as losing the independently run Café Chaud, Surbiton has lost one of its characters.  Richard, who used to own and run the concession at Surbiton station was a real character who always had a smile for you, always remembered what you drink and who made sure you were served fast and with courtesy.  With his lovely welsh accent, he was always willing to have a chat and his enthusiasm made Café Chaud a great success.  We understand Richard is moving to Australia and we wish him all the best for the future.

Café Chaud has always had good quality staff and it was good to see that the old staff were working for Café Nero this morning.  Café Nero has taken over the concession on a temporary basis until a permanent deal can be done.  The waiting rooms in Surbiton station are likely to get a more corporate look once Café Nero has completed the deal.