A Norfolk man who was the head barista at Europe's busiest independent coffee shop is now opening his own business in Norwich. 

Giles Hayward-Smith, 55, has more than a decade's experience working in the coffee industry and he most recently managed Strangers in All Saints Green.

Mr Hayward-Smith, who grew up in Fakenham, spent most of his career in London before moving to Norwich in 2020. 

Eastern Daily Press: Buffalo Coffee Brewers is opening in Norwich on October 2Buffalo Coffee Brewers is opening in Norwich on October 2 (Image: Buffalo Coffee Brewers)

He was the head barista at Taylor St Baristas in Canary Wharf, which would serve almost 2,000 coffees a day. 

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On Monday, October 2 he is opening Buffalo Coffee Brewers at 36 St Benedicts Street in Norwich, in the former home of Device next to Cookes. 

He will use Square Mile coffee from London and then a different guest company each month, starting with Yallah Coffee Roasters from Cornwall. 

Oat milk will also be available as a plant-based alternative for no extra charge. 

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Eastern Daily Press: Customers can sit-in or takeaway at Buffalo Coffee Brewers Customers can sit-in or takeaway at Buffalo Coffee Brewers (Image: Buffalo Coffee Brewers)

There will also be hot chocolate, teas and homemade cakes, with gluten-free and vegan options, made by his friend Yvonne Liversidge.

Mr Hayward-Smith said: "It has been on my mind for a while to have my own coffee shop and St Benedicts Street is such a buzzing and charming place." 

Buffalo Coffee Brewers will be open for sit-in or takeaway on weekdays from 8am-3pm and weekends from 9am-3pm, with loyalty cards available.