STAFF at a new city centre cafe are hoping to make plenty of friends now they have opened their doors.
Chester Perk has opened on Commonhall Street at the site of the former Gastro Deli.
The name and the main theme of the new business has been inspired by the popular 1990s American TV sitcom Friends.
Co-director Jason Wakefield, who runs the cafe with Roxanne Diaconu, explained how the theme came about.
He said: “My girlfriend was looking to set up a cafe in Chester so we had a look around then thought about the idea. I was thinking about it one night and came up with a Friends theme – instead of Central Perk, why not Chester Perk?
“In the cafe we have a poster of the Friends cast, a TV which shows episodes from the show and Amercian-themed decorations. We also have a Manhattan salad on the menu and the Chester Perk deli board.”
The new gastro bistro offers salads, freshly cooked meat and vegetables, soups, sandwiches, baguettes, paninis, sizzling skillets and a range of breakfasts.
It also serves cakes, fresh ground coffee, teas, cold drinks and smoothies.
Jason admitted there was one thing missing from the cafe – a replica of the ‘Friends couch’ which Monica, Rachel, Joey, Chandler, Ross and Phoebe used to convene on.
He said: “If anyone knows if there is anywhere to find one, it would be really helpful for us. I have been searching for the past two months without success.
“We have got the space for it and we can get the couch recoloured if we have to, it just has to look as it was on the show.
“If anyone can help us, they can call the shop on 01244 313414 or visit our Chester Perk Facebook page.”
