AN intimate new bistro run by a husband-and-wife team has opened in a village near Wrexham.

209, located in the heart of Farndon, is the product of owners Felix Shore and Anna Roseblade’s years of hospitality and restaurant industry experience.

Anna, whose background is as diverse as it is interesting - from fashion design to working as a nurse during COVID - has always felt her true calling was in hospitality.

“I’ve always loved serving people, creating a space where they can experience great food and genuine warmth,” says Anna.

Felix on the other hand, took a different path, initially studying politics in Scotland before embarking on a career as a chef. After being staged in some of the finest restaurants across the globe (including Kontrast in Oslo and Restaurant Frantzen in Sweden), Felix brings his extensive knowledge and refined culinary skills to his modern British, seasonally inspired menus at 209.

(Image: Laurel)

“We’ve always dreamed of having our own restaurant,” Anna shares.

“After spending time abroad, including a serious consideration to settle in New Zealand, we knew we had to come back home and make that dream a reality. When the opportunity arose to take on the space at the Farmhouse Café, we jumped at it. It’s been a whirlwind since, but one filled with so much love for what we do.”

In just four weeks, Felix and Anna transformed the space on Top Farm, High Street, Farndon entirely by hand. From building banquette seating to painting walls and making custom tables, the couple have poured their heart and soul into creating a warm, relaxed atmosphere that reflects their shared vision. Every detail of the bistro has been crafted with care, from the cosy interiors to the thoughtfully curated menu that highlights Felix’s passion for fresh, flavourful ingredients.

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We aren’t trying to be flashy or trendy,” says Anna. “We want to be your neighbourhood spot, where you can come multiple times a week and always feel welcome.”

209 is open Monday to Sunday 8am-2pm for breakfast and brunch and Wednesday to Saturday from 5.30pm-9pm for wine and dinner. The evening menu changes almost daily and features snacks, small, large and sharing plates, handcrafted desserts, and an extensive wine list.

“There’s no big money in hospitality anymore, and that’s okay. We’re doing this because we love it,” Anna adds.

“It’s about sharing our passion with others and creating a space where people can feel at home.”