New Dandelion Cafe - ‘It’s a cute little place’

A new café is now open in Hamilton selling a variety of smoothies, sandwiches, salads and breakfast items.

Dandelion Café opened this month at the old Buzz H 20 location in the upper section of the Washington Mall.

Marion Ritchie, who previously worked at Buzz for four years, is the owner. 

Ms Ritchie redid the décor of the café, making it feel more fresh and homey.

She said she chose the name because “in Germany, we have big dandelion fields and me and my grandmother used to go there. We would blow them and make a wish, so really, it’s a tribute to my grandmother.

Ms Ritchie employs mostly Bermudian staff including Bermudian head chef Curtis Azar.

She said the Dandelion Café had the look of spring about to help create an atmosphere that people can relax in. 

“I think it’s more personal because it’s not a franchise.

“Everybody comes in here and they love it. It’s fresh and it’s friendly.

“It was a lot of work getting it all together.

“It’s funny because you don’t know how it’s going to look until it’s ready.

“It all came together and I was really happy. It’s a cute little place where people can feel relaxed.”

Some of the décor includes dandelion decals on the wall and butterfly jars on each table featuring battery-operated butterflies.

She was quick to add: “The concept hasn’t changed, we still have smoothies, takeout, and a buffet.”

Ms Ritchie has been in the restaurant business for 27 years, 22 of them in Bermuda.

‘The owner of Buzz was a friend of mine… and they offered it to me. They were very helpful to me, they’re still helping me.”

Ms Ritchie added she didn’t jump at the opportunity, but decided to contemplate on whether or not it was the best decision for her.

“I thought about it for a month or two because it was scary, but I said yes.

“I know the customers, I know what everybody likes and doesn’t like.”

Ms Ritchie said the people have responded to the concept and have kept the staff busy.

“It seemed to have worked out fine and I think we have the hang of it.”

As far as the menu goes, Ms Ritchie said that was pretty much the same including the sushi.

The main difference is Mr Azar as the head chef.

“He’s implementing a lot of Bermudian foods. He even picks his own loquats and makes chutney.

“He tries to use as mamy local products as possible.”

Some of the popular items include a breakfast platter with waffles, a fat-free Denver omelet in a mug, the fishcake panini, sushi and loquat salad dressing.

Ms Ritchie said Dandelion Café also offers meals for those who are in the Ideal Protein wellness progamme by Dr Wong.

“From next month, we will provide those meals because their diet is very complex.

“I have done a lot of research and met with the coaches.”

Chef Azar said he will be focused on creating delicious Bermudian food but also cooking foods from different nationalities.

He hopes to create food with Spanish, Mexican and Asian influences in addition to Bermudian food.

Ms Ritchie said in addition to the regular menu, she will also offer catering and delivery.

The venue is also available for small events. Dandelion Café hours are from 7:30am to 4pm.