Varley’s, an Irish delicatessen and Dolcevita, a contemporary Italian restaurant have opened within a minute’s drive from each other in Upminster whilst Brazilian-British inspired lunch bar Merlin Butcher and Grocery is opening its doors for the first time in Hornchurch next week (January 24).
Varleys
Varleys, owned by Alex Beck and his partner Alice, opened its doors to the public on January 7.
The deli sells coffees using beans sold in Dublin as well as its own blend of slow cooker hot chocolates.
Other Irish favourites such as Tayto crisps, Irish Cadbury chocolates, Club soft drinks are also sold amongst freshly made breads and build-your-own bowls and sandwiches from a food bar.
Alex previously told the Recorder: “We’re opening the doors with Irish hospitality really. We’re in the business of looking after people.
“We just wanted to give the high street something beautiful. High streets have changed, big time everywhere. Not just in Upminster.
“It’s a home from home for people. It’s something for everyone, even if you’re not Irish.”
Dolcevita
Dolcevita, translating roughly to ‘good life’ in Italian, opened on January 3 in Corbets Tey Road.
The restaurant’s website says describes itself as “modern Italian dining meets neighbourhood warmth in the heart of Upminster”.
It adds: “We believe in simple food done beautifully – elegant yet relaxed, crafted for families, friends, and those who appreciate the art of authentic Italian cuisine.
“From morning espresso to evening aperitivo, we serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner inspired by fresh local produce and the timeless flavours that make Italian cooking unforgettable.”
The restaurant has already averaged a five out of five star rating on Google with 10 written reviews.
One satisfied customer wrote earlier this week: “Superb food. Best Italian I’ve had in years.”
Merlin Butcher and Grocery
Set top open its doors for the first time next Saturday (January 24) is Merlin Butcher and Grocery in Billet Lane.
The shop, opening in place of the former Planet Store, will offer fresh meat and groceries from Brazil and Britain and will have a butchers at the back of the store as well as a shop and lunch bar at the front.
Husband and wife Bruno and Dianne Merlin grew up in Brazil before moving to Cranham in 2024 and previously told the Recorder they were “very excited” to welcome the public to the shop.
“I think we’re bringing something new to the area,” Bruno said.
“We’ll be a different butcher – there’s nothing around like it.
“We offer fresh meat every day, prepared with care and quality.
“We also sell a wide range of Brazilian food products such as rice, beans, flours, spices, sweets, drinks, and more.
