A new artisan Italian deli sandwich café is opening in north Norfolk.

The Core Café, in Holt, promises to bring an authentic taste of Italy to the market town’s Appleyard courtyard inspired by owner Nick Lockhart’s time working in a restaurant in Florence.

The Florentine-inspired menu will offer a selection of traditional Italian deli sandwiches made with crispy schiacciata bread.

The café will use locally sourced ingredients coming from butchers and bakeries in Holt, and premium wines from southern Italian wine merchant Via Vigna.

North Norfolk News: Owner Nick Lockhart and head chef Angus DuthieOwner Nick Lockhart and head chef Angus Duthie (Image: Supplied)

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“We want to bring something completely different to what is currently on offer in Holt,” Mr Lockhart, owner of the Core Café, said.

“We aim to bring an Italian buzz to the Appleyard courtyard.”

The kitchen will be run by head chef Angus Duthie, who previously worked at critically acclaimed Italian restaurant Benoli in Norwich, which featured in the Michelin Guide 2023.

“It’s all about making the best sandwiches in Norfolk using all of the amazing suppliers that exist in this part of the world,” Mr Duthie said.

North Norfolk News: Holt's Appleyard courtyardHolt's Appleyard courtyard (Image: ANTONY KELLY)

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He worked at Benoli for a year after spending time working in restaurants in London.

There will be five styles of seasonal sandwiches, with vegetarian and vegan options available, and several Italian salads – including a classic caesar and panzanella.

Also on offer will be traditional antipasti, charcuterie boards and a selection of elevated bar snacks to accompany its wines, local beers and coffee.

The café’s mezzanine floor will play host to wine tasting events and there are hopes that it could even hold events such as life drawing classes.

In the evenings, the café will open as a tapas restaurant, hosting Holt’s Casa Blanca’s Iberian cuisine.

North Norfolk News: Appleyard, in HoltAppleyard, in Holt (Image: ANTONY KELLY)

North Norfolk News: Appleyard, in HoltAppleyard, in Holt (Image: ANTONY KELLY)