Primary School Teacher to Reopen The Willow Cafe on Kew Green

Primary School Teacher to Reopen The Willow Cafe on Kew Green

A primary school teacher and trained barista is set to reopen The Willow Cafe on Kew Green, with plans to develop the venue as a community space alongside its daytime cafe service.

The Willow Cafe on Kew Green will reopen on Monday, 17 August under new management, with a renewed focus on community activities, events and locally accessible hospitality.

The cafe is being taken on by primary school teacher and trained barista Will Parker, who plans to use the venue for more than its regular daytime food and drink service.

Plans include evening film screenings and live music, while the space will also be made available for local activities such as reading clubs, fitness groups and other community gatherings.

Will said his experience as a teacher had reinforced the importance of places where people can meet and connect.

“As a primary school teacher, I’ve always understood the value of a strong, supportive community,” he said. “We want The Willow Cafe to be somewhere people can use, meet and spend time together.”

The reopening will also introduce a simplified approach to the cafe’s coffee menu. Milk-based espresso drinks, including lattes, cappuccinos and flat whites, will be served in a standard 8oz cup using a double espresso, with the drinks differentiated by milk texture and coffee-to-milk ratio.

The approach is intended to simplify ordering and provide greater consistency during busy periods.

The Willow Cafe will reopen on Monday, 17 August and initially operate from 8am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday, with additional community and evening events planned.