East London's Mae + Harvey Café Celebrates a Decade as Roman Road Staple
Roman Road market in Bow, East London, is a vibrant tapestry of cafes, shops, and stalls, each brimming with character and history. Amidst this bustling scene, one café has carved out a special place in the community, becoming a beloved local gem. Mae + Harvey, set to celebrate its 10th anniversary this December, has evolved from a tiny space barely fitting 12 people into a flourishing operation renowned for its charm, delicious food, and heartfelt hospitality.
From Humble Beginnings to Community Hub
Owner Natasha Sayliss reflects on the journey with pride. "I always knew Roman Road and used to drive through it," she shares. Before opening Mae + Harvey, Natasha ran a juice business at Borough Market. The café's original location was modest, seating only 12 customers. In 2020, an expansion doubled its capacity, a move that proved fortuitous during the Covid-19 pandemic. "We were actually one of the lucky ones," Natasha explains. "As a residential area with many people working from home, we became both a shop and a takeaway for sandwiches, helping us thrive."
The team at Mae + Harvey is small but tightly knit. Natasha is the owner, while Lia Ravelo, the general manager, has been part of the café since 2016. This close-knit dynamic extends even to former staff members, who often return to visit or lend a hand. Over the years, the café has grown stronger as more people move into the area and become regulars, solidifying its role as a community anchor.
A Menu and Atmosphere That Draws Crowds
Mae + Harvey's menu, though compact, is a hit with locals. Household favourites like the chicken sandwich are must-tries, as Natasha enthusiastically recommends. The menu changes regularly, prompting customers to stay updated via the café's Instagram to see what's cooking. This culinary appeal, combined with the café's warm atmosphere, results in queues out the door on weekends, a testament to its popularity.
The friendship and warmth at Mae + Harvey are instantly palpable. Guests frequently stop by to greet Natasha with hugs, highlighting the personal connections that define the café. "I think the locals and regulars appreciate our consistency," Natasha notes. "We're open seven days a week, aiming to provide good food and coffee. Building a community takes time, and over the years, we've built one here."
Embracing Bow's Evolving Character
Bow has transformed in the past decade, yet it retains its essence. Natasha observes that while more coffee shops have emerged, Roman Road has always had its staples. The café attracts a mix of long-time regulars and newer residents, many of whom rent in the area. Even older community members drop in for classics like bacon sandwiches and chicken dishes.
Natasha, who opened Mae + Harvey at age 26 and is now 35, cherishes the lifestyle it offers. "It's a nice lifestyle," she says, adding that Lia has been with her from the start, and the team has remained stable. Located at 414 Roman Rd, Bow, London E3 5LU, the café's success in Bow has been so rewarding that Natasha has no plans to open another location. She is content to continue making Mae + Harvey a welcoming spot for both locals and visitors.
"I'd love to live here myself," Natasha admits. "Bow has a lot of nice people, good schools, and a great community—something I think many places in London lack today. It's the true East End, rich with history. While places change, Bow still holds onto that character." As Mae + Harvey approaches its 10-year milestone, it stands as a shining example of how a small café can become an integral part of a neighbourhood's fabric, fostering connections and serving up joy one cup of coffee at a time.
