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Two independent businesses collaborate for Bristol’s ‘first creative cafe’
Forces behind two independent Bristol ventures have come together to open what they call Bristol’s “first creative cafe”.
A dimly lit space that was formerly home to the events venue 395 is now the site of Cafe395.
Cafe395 is a new venture by Club395, which was born after a collaboration between the owners of 395 and Art Club.
Art Club was formerly home to a string of independent artists and businesses when they were located on Bond Street. A failure in lease renewal forced them to shut down in September 2024, but co-owner Corin Bush was always insistent on finding a way back.
A number of independent DJs will be playing all through the day for the cafe’s opening day
Artists from 41sessions were seen playing tunes at the new space, which had been covered in murals painted by local artists Astra, Pitt and Lizzie Whittall.
Bush was seen behind the bar, alongside other employees celebrating the cafe’s opening: “We were struggling to find a new place in terms of financing, getting permits, and everything going on.
“It was kind of hard for us to get everything together and to get a new place on our own.”
“At the same time, 395 were going through issues as well. Since we knew the previous owners of 395, we kind of merged our businesses and took on this space that they were previously in together.”
Plenty of beverages alongside a selection of bakes were on offer on the opening day
Owners of 395, Ray and Kwazi, were struggling to finance their business and had set up a fundraiser to hopefully save it. Now under Cafe395, the two businesses hope to keep alive their previous identities as well as create a new space for creative people in Bristol.
A hand-painted beverage menu by Eliza Skye was seen hanging behind the bar of the cafe on the opening day. Bakes and sweet treats from Cake Lab were neatly stacked on the front counter and available to purchase.
Bush is now preparing to bring in all the businesses and services that were part of Art Club’s original location – the barber shop, tattoo studio and clothing store – into this new premises under their revived identity.
The team is now looking for artists who are willing to showcase their talent and take up spots at the new space.
All photos: Karen Johnson
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