A café in Meersbrook, Sheffield, has begun a renovation project to double capacity and keep up with it’s increasing popularity.

Owner Adam Heyes opened the Mandala Cafe in 2022 and it quickly became known as a safe place in the community, and is popular for the friendly and welcoming atmosphere that it provides.

The café is full of examples of ‘Mandala’ style artwork, something which Mr Heyes said he has been “fascinated” with since he was 15 years old and has been the inspiration behind the theme and name of the café ever since. 

Mr Heyes has always dreamed of running a café, taking inspiration from the TV show ‘Friends’ and specifically the café ‘Central Perk’ as he thought it was the “coolest place ever”. 

He said: “I believe in manifesting your dreams and ‘Mandala Café’ is evidence that it can work!”.

The café is especially popular due to the many community events and gigs which take place there, however in its current state is not big enough to accommodate the increasing number of customers. 

Mr Heyes set up a Gofundme in March of this year, asking for help from the community to raise the funds needed to expand into the vacant shop next door. 

Over the past few months, the Mandala Café has hosted a number of fundraising events, such as the White Lion Open Mic fundraiser, which along with donations from the community, have helped push the total money raised past £3000, approaching the target of £5,000.

Because of these donations, work was able to start at the beginning of May, setting the project in motion. 

With the renovations starting earlier this month, Mr Heyes is continuing to hold fundraisers and is needing any donations to keep the project going.

He said: “It’s hard work running a cafe, but every day I feel lucky and rewarded to be doing something I have always dreamt about”.

If you would like to help support the expansion of the Mandala Café, then you can access the GoFundMe page via this link, or attend the café in person by going to 87 Chesterfield Road.