Celebrity baker Paul Hollywood cuts ribbon on new Westbourne café

Celebrity baker Paul Hollywood has swapped the Bake Off tent for the Dorset coast, opening a new café in Westbourne. 

Luca’s Takeaway café is already a local favourite, but it drew a crowd as Paul Hollywood cut the green ribbon. 

Residents gathered outside to see the TV baker and try the freshly baked treats.  

Hollywood complimented the café while talking to BUzz, “Looking at the cakes and the setup, the taste of the coffee, and the sandwich that I had this morning – which was delicious – that’s what it’s all about; it’s about quality.” 

The baking star shared that he’d opted for the bacon butty with cheese and said he thoroughly enjoyed it. 

Customers were able to meet Hollywood and take selfies, some brought their editions of his cookbooks to get signed. 

Susannah White, an attendee of the opening, said: “We got a photo, but I wanted to get something signed. We visited one of the charity shops and found an old book of his! I got it signed for my mum – she’s a big fan.” 

Luca’s Takeaway Café was founded by Jody and Kresh Krasniqi, naming the cafe after their son. 

The couple relocated from London to Bournemouth to raise their young family and pursue their dream of opening a café. 

Jody Krasniqi did hair and makeup on Bake Off, developing a close relationship with both Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith.  

Paul and Lisa Flanders, Jody Krasniqi’s parents, were elated at the opening.  

Paul Flanders said: “I knew it would be a success. I know how my daughter is, she’s been Paul’s makeup artist for eight years now. It’s lovely for him to come today. We’re very proud of her.” 

Lisa Flanders added: “It’s [Hollywood’s appearance] massive. It’s so kind, he has come a long way to be here today.” 

While expressing the importance of bringing people back to the high street by opening new shopfronts, Hollywood added: “It takes a lot of confidence to set your own business up in this current climate.” 

Locals said it was refreshing to see something new on Westbourne High Street. 

Susannah White added: “I haven’t seen so many people in Westbourne before! It’s great to see so many people out for the café!”