Quirky cafe opens its doors

Panero Lounge, part of the Lounges Group, which also runs Cosy Club, opened this morning.

The company has transformed the former Laura Ashley store in Palmerston Road precinct into a stylish venue, complete with unusual artwork, chandeliers and opulent wallpaper.

Manager Hannah Williams, who has worked for Lounges for three years in Southampton, said she was delighted to be taking the lead in Southsea.

The 33-year-old from Waterlooville said: ‘I was so excited when I saw Southsea come up. For the past few months we have been working hard to get everything set up. I love new openings as there’s a real excitement.’

The new cafe has created 24 jobs.

Hannah said: ‘When you are recruiting for a new opening, you are recruiting a whole team. You are looking to create a family - and that’s what we have here. They all met last Wednesday and it’s been really interesting to see all the characters together. They are a great team. It’s always nice to be involved in something new.’

Head chef Andrew Nathan has transferred from the Lounges in Southampton.

The 31-year-old from Havant has been working for Lounges for the past year and says it’s one of the best jobs he’s had.

Andrew said: ‘I have worked in catering for a long time and it’s nice to finally come back to Portsmouth. We have a really good team here.

‘We have something for everyone on the menu - and we have an extensive gluten free and vegan menu. It is nice to be cooking with fresh ingredients.

‘It is a really great company to work for.’

The cafe will serve a range of food, from breakfasts through to dinner, with late night opening until 11pm and cocktails too.

The first customers through the door were friends Karen Mitchell and Barbara Redman, who both live nearby in South Parade.

Karen said: ‘We went for lunch at their sister restaurant Cosy Club at Gunwharf Quays last week and really enjoyed it so thought we’d give here a try.

‘We come to Palmerston Road for coffee every morning. It is lovely to see such a nice place, which is so welcoming.

‘And it is lovely to see something opening, rather than the negative news of Debenhams and John Lewis closing down.’