Situated in the heart of Reigate, The Chapel is one of the town’s best-loved independent cafes, owned by native Italian Roberto Bellagamba and his friendly team.
Well-known for a selection of freshly made soups, salads, toasties and cakes, it’s a regular destination for locals with an appetite for a welcoming atmosphere, an inviting environment and delicious food.
We caught up with Roberto to find out more about the highs and lows of life as a business owner.
How did the idea for the Chapel come about?
The Chapel came from two basic ideas:
One, I wanted to have my own business, and two, my parents had a coffee shop in Le Marche, Italy. (I think I made my first cappuccino when I was 12).
I studied Law at university, and worked in the corporate world for several years, but I didn’t enjoy it. I wanted to go back to my roots and do what I used to do with Mamma and Papa.
What influences did you bring from your parent’s café into The Chapel?
Italian coffee shops are pretty different as operations, with a distinctive focus on customer service, experience and ambience.
That’s what I experienced growing up and what I would say has influenced the way I run The Chapel.
How do you go about designing the menu for The Chapel?
It’s based on a clear concept: our food has to be simple, fresh and affordable, created with locally-sourced, quality products.
You may not find anything super fancy – our side salads are drizzled with olive oil and sea salt dressing – but everything is of the highest quality. Our bread is from another local business, Chalk Hills Bakery, and our meat is from Robert & Edwards Butchers. Everything has to be simple, but of a very high standard.
What do people come back for time and time again?
Everything sells well, but it has to be the Italian cannoli. I call them ‘forgiven bites’. You may not want a massive dessert, or something heavy after a meal, but a little cannolo with your coffee? Perfect. I know because I do it myself!
What is your favourite aspect about having your own business?
The fact that you are in charge of everything. From the design and colours to all the small details, your personality can be found in all the branding.
The Chapel has a very European influence. I didn’t want to create a ‘little Italy’, but a fusion. For example, our flat white coffee is more sellable than the espresso, and yet the Italian cannoli remains one of our most popular items.
What’s been your biggest business challenge?
Finding the right people to build a fab team… once you have a great team you have a solid foundation for everything else.
What advice would you give to someone considering opening a similar business?
Get some experience in the industry before starting anything, it’s key to know you’re going to enjoy what you do to make it successful.
What do you think brings people back to The Chapel?
I should say the products, but I think it is the customer service.
What remains at the centre of our business is an outstanding, friendly team. Good food and brilliant staff create the relaxed atmosphere that people return for. You need to have a team that sees what you are trying to achieve; who listen and understand.
Open communication is key to a healthy work environment.
A huge thank you to Roberto for sharing The Chapel’s story with us.
Fun Fact: Cannolo is the singular term for Cannoli!
If you wish to find out more about the Chapel, view their full menu or look into booking parties, you can find them on Instagram or visit their website.