Our Story

Hi, we're Simon and Lara – husband and wife, food lovers, and proud owners of Kali, our dream cafe in the heart of our hometown, Thame.

Since moving here in 2021, we’ve loved becoming part of this vibrant community. Some of you may recognize Simon from his time at What’s Cooking, or more recently, behind the coffee machine at The W. Lara has found her people in the Thame Tornadoes Netball Team and through the Youphoria Dance Fitness classes she leads in Thame and Longwick. We're both passionate about food, always on the hunt for the best coffee and brunch spots – which naturally led us here.

We both come from performing arts backgrounds – Lara as a singer and dancer, Simon as an actor and presenter. Like many others, our lives shifted dramatically during Covid. That’s when we began working together at Pantry, a lovely little café in Hazlemere. It just clicked. The idea for Kali was born, and we haven't looked back since.

Kali is more than a cafe – it’s a space filled with Kindness And Love Inside.
That’s what Kali stands for. It's our ethos and our promise.

Our aim is to create a welcoming, home-from-home atmosphere where everyone feels like a guest, not just a customer. The menu – fresh, modern, and feel-good – reflects that too. It’s vegetarian and mostly plant-based, designed to nourish both people and planet. We’re passionate about making choices that are better for the environment, and for animals too.

We also believe hospitality can be a meaningful career, not just a stepping stone. That’s why we’re creating a nurturing, growth-focused workplace where people feel valued – whether they’re in the kitchen, behind the coffee machine, or serving on the floor.

As a community-based business, we’re proud to play our part in local events, always sharing our unique blend of kindness, care, and great food.

“Kindness and making other people feel good – that’s a real superpower. And we’ve all got it.”

We can’t wait to welcome you to Kali – your new go-to for good vibes, great coffee, and delicious food.

With love,
Simon & Lara