Roman Road is steeped in history, and the owner of Mae + Harvey takes pride in being part of that narrative.
A walk through the Roman Road market reveals a vibrant array of cafés, shops, and stalls, each with its own unique character and story. This market is a hallmark of Bow in East London. Continuing along Roman Road, visitors will discover a true community treasure: Mae + Harvey, which is set to celebrate its 10th anniversary this December. Owner Natasha Sayliss has witnessed the café evolve from a cozy space accommodating just 12 patrons to a thriving establishment renowned for its charm, culinary offerings, and hospitality.
„I always knew Roman Road and would often drive through it. Before opening here, I operated a juice business at Borough Market. The original location was tiny, seating only 12 people. In 2020, we expanded and doubled our capacity. In a way, we were fortunate during Covid, as this residential area saw many people working from home, allowing us to serve as both a shop and a takeaway for sandwiches,“ Natasha explained.
Natasha noted that while Bow has undergone significant changes over the past decade, it has also retained its essence. „There are now many more coffee shops. Roman Road has always had its staples. We have regular customers who have been with us since the beginning, but the demographic shifts as many residents come and go. We also attract older community members, especially for our beloved bacon sandwiches and chicken dishes that everyone enjoys.“
The café’s team is small yet tightly knit. Natasha leads the operation, while Lia Ravelo, the general manager, has been with the café since 2016. The camaraderie among staff is evident, with former employees frequently returning to visit or lend a hand. As more people move into the area, Mae + Harvey has continued to thrive, cultivating a loyal customer base.
- Popular menu items include the chicken sandwich, which Natasha highly recommends.
- The menu is concise and changes regularly, encouraging patrons to follow their Instagram for updates.
As Natasha converses with guests, many come in to greet her warmly, highlighting the café’s inviting atmosphere. This sense of community is one of Mae + Harvey’s key attractions, along with the food that draws long lines on weekends. „I believe our regulars appreciate the consistency we offer. We are open seven days a week, aiming to provide excellent food and coffee. There’s a vibrant energy in the area, making it a wonderful place to live. Building a community takes time, and we’ve successfully created one here over the years,“ she remarked.
Reflecting on her journey, Natasha shared, „I was 26 when I opened Mae + Harvey, and now I’m 35. It’s been a fulfilling lifestyle. Lia has been here since the start, and our team has remained stable for quite some time.“ The location in Bow has proven beneficial for Natasha and her team. She expressed no desire to open another location, preferring to focus on making Mae + Harvey a welcoming spot for both locals and visitors.
„I would love to live here myself because it’s such a great place. Bow has wonderful people, good schools, and a strong community, which is increasingly rare in London. Bow is rich in history; it embodies the true East End. While places evolve, it still retains its character,“ Natasha added.
Mae + Harvey is located at 414 Roman Rd, Bow, London E3 5LU.
Bildquelle: cottonbro studio auf Pexels
