Food and Drink
Food and Drink
Click Here For Cafes and Coffee Bars
Harrogate’s First Fully Gluten-Free Café Reveals Opening Date Ahead of Town Centre Launch
A new independent gluten-free café in Harrogate is set to open its doors next week, bringing a dedicated dining experience for coeliac and gluten-intolerant customers to the town centre.
Café Otto, located at 34 Oxford Street in the former JoJo Maman Bébé unit, will officially open on Wednesday 20th May after weeks of major renovation work.
The new Harrogate café is being described by its owners as the town’s first “totally gluten-free” café bar, offering a full menu designed specifically for people looking for safe and reliable gluten-free dining in North Yorkshire.
The business is being launched by Jonathan Skinner and Sara Ferguson, who together bring almost 60 years of hospitality experience to the venture.
Sara Ferguson, who has worked in Harrogate’s hospitality industry for nearly 30 years, is gluten intolerant and also has close family members with coeliac disease. The couple say this helped inspire the idea behind Café Otto and their passion for creating a welcoming gluten-free café in Harrogate.
Jonathan Skinner also brings nearly three decades of experience in catering equipment supply and commercial kitchen design, helping shape the specialist kitchen and food preparation areas inside the new venue.
The transformation of the Oxford Street property has already caught the attention of shoppers and visitors, thanks to its bold green exterior, modern redesign and new outdoor decking area for al fresco dining.
Updates on the renovation and launch preparations have been shared through the café’s Instagram account, @theottocafe, where excitement has continued to build ahead of opening day.
The arrival of Café Otto comes as demand for gluten-free restaurants and cafés in Harrogate continues to grow, with many coeliac customers often struggling to find dedicated dining spaces without the risk of cross-contamination.
Further details about the menu, drinks offering and opening events are expected to be announced soon.
………………………………………………………………………….
Harrogate is at the heart of the region’s culinary reputation. Known for its elegant tearooms and famous afternoon tea, the town also boasts a thriving restaurant scene, stylish bars and independent cafés. Visitors can enjoy everything from relaxed brunches and artisan coffee to fine dining experiences, with many venues showcasing locally sourced Yorkshire produce.
Just a short distance away, Knaresborough offers a more relaxed, scenic setting. With its iconic riverside views, the town is home to cosy pubs, welcoming cafés and independent eateries. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely lunch, traditional British dishes or a casual bite while exploring the surrounding countryside and historic streets.
Ripon completes the trio with its rich heritage and growing food scene. Here, you’ll find a blend of historic inns, contemporary restaurants and artisan food outlets. The city celebrates hearty Yorkshire flavours alongside modern menus, often featuring seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms and producers.
Across Harrogate, Knaresborough and Ripon, quality and hospitality are at the forefront. From award-winning restaurants and hidden gems to family-friendly venues and vibrant food spots, there is something for every taste and occasion.
The Harrogate Guide makes it easy to discover the best food and drink in the area, helping visitors and locals alike explore top dining destinations, uncover new favourites and experience the true flavour of North Yorkshire.
