FOOD trends may come and go but one city cafe has managed to weather the changes and remain popular for a staggering 45 years.

Poppins restaurant on The Foregate, Worcester first opened in 1979 as a franchise in a chain of family restaurants found largely across the Midlands and further south.

Foodie fads may fade but the co-owner of Poppins said its 'no-nonsense approach' has been key to its longevity. 

Senol Can took over Poppins in 2002, and today he co-owns the restaurant alongside his son Kaan Can who entered the business in 2018 and is now at its forefront.

Mr Can said: "It's Poppins. It's comfort food and it's a simple approach - that's why we have been so successful for so many years.

"We have a no nonsense approach to hospitality that appeals to people.

Poppins' broad menu has remained the same for many years too much to its regular customers' delight.

Mr Can added: "We are really popular for our breakfasts here.

"But the biggest advantage is the variety on our menu - we really have something for everyone, and it's all price competitive too."

Mr Can was 13 years old when his father purchased the restaurant in 2002, and he has been around the business ever since.

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He said: "The restaurant is an emotional attachment for me - I've basically grown up here and I've met lots of our customers over the years that we have owned it.

"The majority of our customers are repeat customers, so we know their names and sometimes we'll even have their food ready for when they arrive.

"It makes them comfortable."

"The restaurant was established in 1979 and the all-round approach has remained the same for as long as it has been here."

 

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Mr Can and his father bought the freehold for the building Poppins is in last year, and in October, made an application to Worcester City Council to demolish the floors above Poppins and develop hotel room and self-contained flats.

On the planned development, Mr Can said: "This is an emotional space for me.

"I wanted to ensure the long-term success of the business and the building, rather than focusing on short-term gain.

"I spoke to estate agents in Worcester city centre and they outlined that demand for accommodation is greater than supply - so I want to meet the city's needs."