I’d bought a Coffee Roaster from a chap I met in a pub. We all know how that can happen. It sat around for a couple of years. The breakthrough came when I read in the Sunday Times Business section that a new business model called Handpicked Hall was being created in the Grand Arcade, whereby you could turn up, set up shop, pay by the day or week, and sell your wares. All without signing any kind of contract!

Count me in please. And Casa Colombiana was born.

Handpicked Hall rekindled interest in the Grand Arcade which had hitherto been derelict for some 7 years. But as a concept it lasted just 10 months, after which landlords invited those businesses that had shown promise to move into other premises. We settled in at no 6, adding food to our Coffee offer, then live music and dance a year later, to complete the full authentic Latin Experience.

Following an extensive refurbishment programme undertaken during 2020’s lockdown, Casa Colombiana became Casa Leeds, and we’re delighted to welcome all our guests, old and new, to our new surroundings. Here’s to another decade of service to you all…