We're highlighting the shortlisted cafes in our competition in the News & Star. Each of the establishments will be featured over ten issues.

I Love Cafe Carlisle has been nominated by News & Star readers as one of the ten finalists in its 'Best Cafe 2024' award.

The cafe, located on Carlisle's St Cuthbert Lane is owned by mother-and-daughter duo Charlotte and Kerry Birkett. 

After learning of the cafe's nomination, only a week after receiving a new five-out-of-five food hygiene rating and nine months after their re-location to their current premises, Charlotte and Kerry were on hand to express their delight.

"It's lovely to be recognised and see that our customers have supported us," Charlotte said.

"We just did not think we would be as busy as we are and it has just been amazing and it has just taken off.

"We have got our amazing regulars who always support us and then we have always got new people coming in to try us as well.

"We had the old premises for four years and we outgrew it basically and we had people waiting outside to be served so when we saw Coffe Genius was available we jumped at the opportunity," Kerry added.

As I Love Cafe continues to ride the crest of a wave after their move into their current location, Charlotte and Kerry also discussed what they believe makes them stand out from the other cafes in Carlisle and the surrounding areas.

Charlotte said: " The cakes are our main seller.

"I make all the cakes and they are all homemade and we do sell a lot of cake," Kerry chuckled.

"Since we have moved we have really upgraded the menu and it is really modern and I don't think it is something that the other cafes in town are offering.

"It is a bit of a step up from cafe food."