A new independent cafe inspired by Derby’s historic tea and coffee trade is set to open on Ashbourne Road.
Sugar Loaf will launch later this year and bring a refined new coffee and brunch destination to Derby – offering artisan bakes, scrummy seasonal dishes and premium coffee.
The cafe takes inspiration from Derby’s rich commercial heritage and the historic ‘tea chest and sugar loaf’ tea dealers who traded from Irongate during the late 18th century.
Opening in August, Sugar Loaf will combine speciality coffee, locally sourced produce and thoughtfully designed interiors within a modern neighbourhood cafe setting.
The idea has been developed around quality, craftsmanship and community, drawing inspiration from the elevated cafe culture seen in cities like London and Copenhagen, whilst remaining firmly rooted in Derby and its local identity.
Designed to feel calm, welcoming and timeless, the new cafe will offer a unique space for customers to slow down, meet, work and socialise.
The team behind Sugar Loaf say the aim is to create a café experience more commonly associated with larger cities, whilst still feeling authentic and accessible to the local community.
A spokesperson for Sugar Loaf said: “We want to create something Derby doesn’t currently have – a neighbourhood cafe that feels genuinely premium whilst still being welcoming and rooted in the city’s history.
“The name Sugar Loaf came from researching Derby’s historic connection to tea, coffee and sugar trading, and we loved the story behind it. Everything we’re building is centred around quality, detail and creating somewhere people genuinely want to spend time.”
The menu will focus on speciality coffee, fresh pastries, seasonal food and ingredients sourced from independent suppliers across Derbyshire and the Midlands.
Beyond good coffee and great food, Sugar Loaf is also expected to host collaborative pop-ups, community led events and creative gatherings designed to bring people together within a relaxed neighbourhood setting.
The exact date for the opening of Sugar Loaf is yet to be announced but you can follow its progress on Instagram @sugarloaf.cafe
You’ll also be able to see menu previews, sneak peeks at the new interior and other exciting news as soon as it is released.
