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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Orlaith Clinton

North Belfast man opens new café with customers travelling from near and far for cheesecakes

A new business in North Belfast has seen people travel from across the city for their homemade cheesecakes.

Piece of Cake, on the Shore Road, opened just three months ago serving hot drinks, mouth-watering treats and lunches at their deli counter.

Having grown up a stone throw away from his new venture, owner Dean McCourt said he's proud to set up in the community.

Speaking to Belfast Live, Dean, who is expecting his first child in the new year, said: "I grew up on the Shore Road and have always lived here. I have always wanted to open my own business and always had a bit of a taster for it.

"When Covid kicked in, I had no job and had some money saved up so every penny I saved went into opening this place, Piece of Cake. I wanted it to be fresh and funky, welcoming for staff and customers.

Piece Of Cake (Justin Kernoghan)

"I worked away for so many years on the Oil Rigs and now, through Piece of Cake, I am seeing people I haven't seen since my school days. That's probably my favourite thing about this, I am getting to have a chat with old friends.

"My partner and I are expecting next year and she has been brilliant to me, so so supportive. She points me in the right direction and everything I am doing at the minute is for the child - I just can't wait."

Dean works alongside two local women, Lesley Ann and Lorraine, whom he knows for many years.

And due to demand, they are now doing delivery services within 10 miles of the Shore Road and say they're delighted to be accepting the £100 High Street Vouchers.

New to the world of business, Dean says he is still finding his feet with all that comes with it, but has been "so grateful" for the support so far.

Piece Of Cake are constantly introducing new cheesecake flavours (Justin Kernoghan)

"I really appreciate every message of support and that gives me a buzz, a buzz I have never had before," Dean added.

"It is good that people are loving to see me do well. The last three months have flown in because it has been so busy but I wanted to get it right and I said I wouldn't stop until then.

"Last Saturday we sold 100 cheesecakes within four hours - people are going mad for them. They are made right here, behind the counter. All fresh every single morning.

Piece Of Cake (Justin Kernoghan)

"It's out of my comfort zone a bit, this business world, but it has been really fun and we are just delighted. Carl Frampton came down last week and he was an absolute gentleman. I can't remember not knowing Carl, he's a top man and I was just so humbled that he came to show his support.

"I just want to thank all our customers and the staff for all they have done, it has been a brilliant three months and I can't wait to see what happens in the months ahead."

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