June 22, 2015 11.47 am This story is over 118 months old

First look: Couple open Lincoln’s first waffle bar

Coffee/ waffles/ wine: People in the market for a treat with a twist in Lincoln can now swing by a unique new business, Madame Waffle.

A unique coffee and dining concept has opened on Lincoln High Street in the form of a rustic independent waffle house Madame Waffle.

Opened by entrepreneurial couple Bruce and Sharon Whetton this week in the former Appletree, Madame Waffle is more than just a family business.

The couple say that Lincoln had a particular draw for them as they wanted to step up their business venture in a vibrant city environment.

Some 10 jobs have been created in the move and there is a particular emphasis on customer service and quality.

“The modern coffee culture has come on leaps and bounds,” said Bruce. “Compared with 10 years ago, people are now really passionate about their coffee.

“We have gone for a top coffee roaster Square Mile, who actually insist on an interview process in order to select their suppliers.”

On the waffle menu, diners will find not only sweet treats like Banoffee and Tiramisu, but a range of savoury dishes ranging from English fry-ups, Halloumi and chilli and Bolognaise.

Prices start at around £4.95 for a meal, and waffles are available separately and with chosen toppings.

Inside, the listed building has been redesigned and kitted out with antique-style industrial fixtures. The pair have done all the work from scratch, enlisting local skills and materials too.

“We’ve invested every penny we have and totally refurbished the building and layout from scratch,” explained Bruce. “The equipment is top-of-the-range and everything from the furniture to the floorboards has been locally sourced and crafted by Lincolnshire joiners.

“I’m an electrician by trade and we’ve put in effort to make the place welcoming and an environment for all.”

Seating is spaced out on three levels, with tables on the street level, the upstairs room complete with grand period features and country-inspired fittings, and also in the intimate cellar with vaulted ceiling.

Bruce added: “We’ve put a lot of thought into every section and will be tweaking things and adding last bits here and there for a while I expect.

“The range of areas, with the spacious room upstairs and the cellar, will suit a range of customers. And there’s the element of fun because people downstairs can leave their mark and graffiti the pipe!”