Story & photos: John Mellor
After completing extensive refurbishment of the premises himself, Algali Saeed has recently opened what used to be the East House pub as an ice cream and coffee shop. He will shortly be adding burgers, kebabs, chicken, chips, pizzas and other items to the menu.
Algali arrived in the UK in 2004 from Sudan where he was a farmer. He now lives in Rotherham and worked as a warehouse operative before deciding to set up his own business on Spital Hill. His wife, Sarah, who is a native of Rotherham, helps him at the shop in her spare time. They have named the café after their 3-year-old daughter, Mena. Algali's work on the premises has greatly improved the outlook from the café.
Sitting at the table by the large window gives a panoramic view towards the Wicker Arches and the city centre – and the ice cream, made in the New Forest, is delicious!