A newly-established cafe operated by Dominican friars has begun trading in Oxford.
The establishment, named The Good Habit, is situated in St Giles, directly across from St Giles’ Church.
The Roman Catholic religious order responsible for the venue obtained planning approval earlier in the year, with authorisation for signage and a branded canopy anticipated to follow.
Over the weekend, employees at the venue announced via social media that The Good Habit had opened its doors for the first time.
Visitors were invited to attend at the northern section of St Giles in Oxford, near the churchyard, where staff recommended sampling the Guinness cake.
During the summer months, Fr John O’Connor, who serves as Regent of Blackfriars Priory, confirmed that planning consent had finally been granted and that construction workers were on the premises, with progress advancing rapidly toward a summer launch.
The initiative was described as an exciting project, intended to function as a retail cafe during daytime hours, filled with activity, while evenings would accommodate Blackfriars Hall gatherings, community functions, and public events.
The location was characterised as a vibrant area of Oxford with considerable energy across multiple dimensions.
The premises at 33 St Giles had previously operated as a banking outlet until 2018.
Extensive renovations have converted the space into a contemporary cafe and function area, promoted as a destination for coffee and bakery items.
Rich Sewell, the venue’s manager, had previously expressed enthusiasm about launching The Good Habit during the summer.
He noted that he had collaborated with Blackfriars for several years and was delighted to observe the project’s development.
The manager indicated that the establishment would provide an excellent cafe and versatile environment for both members of the public and students affiliated with Blackfriars.