Birmingham’s first cycle cafe opens its doors

BIRMINGHAM’S first fully-licensed cycle cafe has opened its doors to customers for the first time.

Gorilla Coffee, based in Kings Heath, caters for everyone with an interest in pedal-powered transport whether it’s watching cycling events on the big screen or having their ride repaired or serviced in the fully-equipped bike workshop.

The venue, in Drayton Road, aims to support local suppliers and its coffee is created by Worcestershire-based Coffee Masters, while the craft beers on offer celebrate the best the area has to offer.

One of the most popular beers – No Brakes IPA – comes from Blackheath’s Fixed Wheel Brewery.

Gorilla Coffee’s co-owners James Connolly and Stacey Jarvis have been working on the project for two years.

Mr Connolly said: “It’s great to finally have the doors open and be able to welcome people. This has been a dream of mine for 10 years and we really wanted to do it justice. I couldn’t be prouder of what Stacey and I have created, and I hope that people enjoy coming to Gorilla Coffee as much as we have enjoyed making it.”

Located above the café and operated by experienced cycle mechanic Damian Towers, Gorilla Coffee’s pièce-de-résistance, the bike workshop, is fully equipped to undertake everything from minor adjustments through to full servicing.

There are two service packages available: the Domestique service, which is an interim service to keep your bike running true, and the King of the Mountain service that sees the bike fully stripped down and rebuilt.

With both services, people will receive a free drink while the work is carried out.

The café is aiming to expand its cycling services in the New Year with a collection and delivery service within five miles of the shop.

“We want to offer somewhere with a community feel, where people who enjoy an active lifestyle can meet for coffee and cake, or when they aren’t training, great food, beer, and premium wine,” added Mr Connolly.

“Having been a competitive triathlete, I know how few places welcome cyclists or runners. We want to change that by being an establishment that is comfortable with an upmarket edge. We will have specialist events and community activities, as well as running and cycling clubs, all operating in the heart of Kings Heath.”

Alongside the co-owners and bike technician, Gorilla Coffee has also employed two expert baristas and one front of house host. Over 350 applications were received during Gorilla Coffee’s recruitment drive.