Grant backing helps Greek cafe open in town centre

A new Greek cafe has opened its doors in Shipley, following a grant from the Shipley Towns Fund.

The Greek Corner has launched at 18 Kirkgate. Owners Vasileios Galizis and Sophie Lancelot received funding which was used to fit out the space.

Galizis, who has had a career in hospitality, said: “With the support of the grant, we were able to open the doors to our Greek-inspired cafe in the heart of Shipley.

“I myself am Greek, from the Peloponnese south of Athens, and we are serving a menu inspired by traditional Greek cuisine like fresh, homemade pastries, alongside Yorkshire dishes to reflect both mine and Sophie’s heritage.

“The focus will be on delicious authentic food, including desserts, giving people all the true flavours of Greece here in Yorkshire with sit-in, takeaway and delivery service.

“We are excited and eager to give back to the community through supporting other local businesses, contributing to the local economy and providing a great venue for social and cultural events.”

Bradford Council’s portfolio holder for regeneration, transport and planning, Alex Ross Shaw, said: “Bradford Council’s Invest in Bradford team were able to help this business with its development and to apply for this grant.

“It is great to be able to support a new business and to offer local people an authentic taste of Greece on Kirkgate. We wish the news business every success.”

Chair of the Shipley Towns Fund, Adan Clerkin, added: “The Greek Corner is a really welcome addition to Shipley’s food scene and we look forward to its opening.

“Grants from the Shipley Towns Fund are making huge differences to a diverse range of business across our area.

“They are still available from £1,500 to 315,000 for businesses within – or looking to move to – the Shipley Towns Fund area, and other businesses are invited to apply.”