Small Business Stories - Charlie's Angels Kitchens, Tunbridge Wells

As a small business owner myself, I know how tough (and rewarding!) it can be. That's why I love working with other small businesses, and Small Business Stories is my way of celebrating and sharing them.

On Camden Road in Tunbridge Wells, you’ll find Charlie’s Angels Kitchens - a café that’s about far more than food. Open for the past two years, and previously popping up in Rusthall and Southborough, this local gem has quickly become a much-loved part of the Tunbridge Wells community.

Surplus with purpose... reducing food waste

The whole purpose of Charlie’s Angels Kitchens is to reduce food waste. Much of the food they use comes from FareShare Kent, rescuing surplus food that would otherwise never reach supermarket shelves, as well as working directly with farmers and local businesses.

When the food arrives, it’s very much a “Ready, Steady, Cook!” approach as Charlie and the team get to work creating delicious meals from what’s available that day.

One thing you can always rely on is their delicious toasties... they always have cheese and bread! And, true to their values, nothing is wasted... if it doesn't get eaten, it is donated to the animals on a local farm.

As well as serving delicious food, they also sell excess pastries, breads, fruit and vegetables so you can stock up while you're there too... you might even find some flowers to take home with you.

Everyone is welcome at Charlie's Angels Kitchens

As well as reducing food waste, community is at the very heart of Charlie's Angels Kitchens. Supported by around 40 volunteers, the café is built on the message that they are for everybody - from those who may be struggling to afford food, to people looking to connect, or simply friends and families popping out together.

Dogs are welcome, as are kids, and little ones might even be handed a welly full of crayons and drawing paper!

There is no judgement if you’re struggling and can’t pay full price... you’re still part of the solution by eating here and helping to stop food waste.

For those who can, there are plenty of ways to give back... contribute to the cause, pay a little extra for your meal, or pass on a full coffee loyalty card so someone else can enjoy it.

When will you pop in to Charlie's Angels Kitchens?

Charlie’s Angels Kitchens is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10.30am–4pm, with late opening on Friday nights. They’re fully licensed, serving vegan and organic wine from returnable bottles, and you can enjoy their own food or even order fish and chips from the chippie next door.

Looking ahead, Charlie is planning more events, open mic nights and live music, creating even more reasons to gather on Camden Road... so, when will you pop in to support them?

Charlie’s Angels Kitchens perfectly captures what supporting local in Tunbridge Wells is all about - reducing food waste, backing volunteers and creating a warm, inclusive space where everyone belongs.

Find out more at www.charliesangelskitchens.co.uk