Lawyers at Bristol-based commercial firm Meade King have advised on the acquisition of one of Bristol’s oldest vegetarian eateries.
The Royce Rolls Cafe in St Nicholas Market, which has been serving the people of Bristol since 1979, has been acquired by Evie Gkatzioufa and Marilo Torres Pedrosa.
The enterprising duo, just the third owners in the café’s history, previously worked on food stalls at the indoor market. They took over the popular café with expert advice from Alex Hall, a partner in Meade King’s company and commercial team.
Evie said: “We knew Alex because he often comes into the market for lunch. So when we told him we were looking to take over the cafe, he said that buying and selling businesses was his area of expertise.”
Evie and Marilo will continue to offer tasty vegetarian and vegan food, as well as gluten-free options for people with special dietary needs. The cafe, which has just been awarded a top five-star food hygiene rating by the Food Standards Agency, is also introducing a range of delicious Mediterranean dishes.
Meade King advised on the purchase of the business and its assets, as well as the café’s trading licence agreement with Bristol City Council and staff employment matters. Campbell McKellar, a lawyer in the firm’s company and commercial team, also advised on the deal.
Evie added: “Alex and Campbell were both amazing and checked every aspect of the sale, including things we wouldn’t have thought of, to make sure there were no problems. We developed a great relationship with them and received prompt replies to all our questions – they were very professional.”
Alex said: “Opportunities within the market, which is one of Bristol’s busiest shopping areas, don’t come up very often, so it was great that we were able to assist with this transaction right on our doorstep.
“It means we are well placed to see the business as it grows and we wish Evie and Marilo every success as they take over the running of Bristol’s original vegetarian cafe.”
Pictured, from left: Meade King’s Alex Hall, Marilo Torres Pedrosa from the Royce Rolls Cafe, Meade King’s Campbell McKellar and Evie Gkatzioufa from the Royce Rolls Cafe
