The Upper Crust cafe Normanhurst site transformed into new cafe, Number 38 with community garden

Number 38 has opened at the site of the former Upper Crust cafe, which was staffed by people with special needs and closed amid community protests two years ago.

Long-time Normanhurst residents Shiva and Glen Frost have taken on the challenge of opening the cafe and could possibly hire two of the former Upper Crust employees.

Ms Frost said some of the others could get involved in a community garden which she hopes to launch with support from locals.

“I want to do the best by everyone,” said Ms Frost, a chef for 30 years.

“The ones I can’t employ could help in the garden and they could get paid if it is profitable like the one (community garden) at Turramurra.”

Mr Frost said the cafe represented a “great new start for Normanhurst”.

“We have lived in this suburb for 20 years. We would like to see this shopping strip really come to life again so we feel that the cafe is part of that,” he said.

With the help of designer Anastasia Jovanovic, the Frosts have transformed the space into a funky, relaxing and inviting cafe.

And word is spreading like wildfire, with residents such as Judy Cameron happy to see a cafe return to the area.

“It’s a wonderful thing to have a cafe back in Normanhurst. We have missed it,” Mrs Cameron said.

Hornsby state Liberal MP Matt Kean, who officially opened the cafe on Monday, is also impressed.

“I never thought I would see the day when the doors would reopen.

It has been a long road to here but I’m absolutely delighted that the new owners have taken on the cafe and are looking to employ people living with a disability,” he said.

“This cafe has been a greatly loved part of the community for many years and the new owners will ensure that it continues to be for many more years to come.”

Cafe Number 38, at 38 Denman Parade Normanhurst, is open 7am-5pm weekdays and 8am-1pm weekends.

Those interested in becoming a participant or sponsor for the community garden can call Glen on 0417 497 736.

Story so far

1985 — Parents form the charity, Werrigal in a bid to provide supported employment for their children with disabilities

1986 — Upper Crust Catering opens in Normanhurst

2006 — House With No Steps acquires the business and assets after absorbing Werrigal’s $74,000 debt

2011 — House With No Steps plans to shut cafe before a change of mind

2013 — House With No Steps announces plans to close cafe, which stops operating on August 9

2014 — Upper Crust supporters rally outside NSW Parliament House

2015 — Shiva and Glen Frost lease site from House With No Steps and open Number 38

Source: Hornsby Advocate, Tracey Findlay, 6^th August 2015
Originally published as: The Upper Crust cafe Normanhurst site transformed into new cafe, Number 38 with community garden