Antonio Monica, owner of Caffetteria Dantonio in Liverpool’s Metquarter, has been servicing coffee to locals since 2005, despite increasing difficulty competing with larger coffee chains.
Earlier this year, a Facebook post from a coffee shop customer went viral, gaining over 5,000 shares and hundreds of comments after seeing Antonio’s coffee stall. The post pleaded with others to support small businesses and avoid popular high-street coffee chains. Since then, Antonio Monica, the owner of the business, has received an overwhelming response and a steady stream of daily customers eager to try his coffee, pastries, and freshly made sandwiches.
An artist from neighbouring Metquarter resident The Art Quarter Liverpool has created a range of mug and coaster designs featuring his well-loved phrases ‘Ciao Bella’ and ‘Ciao Lad’. The Art Quarter Liverpool, which is run by a group of artists from Liverpool and the Wirral, produces a diverse range of work in a variety of media, including paintings, illustrations, photography, greeting cards, and jewellery.
Karen Edwards, an Art Quarter artist, has created new designs to support Antonio, which are now available to purchase at the Caffetteria Dantonio coffee stand on the ground floor of the Metquarter and have already proven to be a hit with his loyal customers!
Barista Antonio, originally from Milan works by himself in his coffee shop serving his customers who he regards ‘as his family’ for 10 hours per day. He said:
“I’m extremely grateful to The Art Quarter for designing my very own branded designs. The response has already been brilliant, and I love that my customers can now enjoy a piece of Caffetteria Dantonio from the comfort of their own home.”
Karen Edwards, an artist at The Art Quarter Liverpool said:
“As a fellow small business owner, we’re very happy to be able to support Antonio and couldn’t pass on the opportunity to incorporate his iconic Scouse-Italian one liners into a bespoke design for all of his customers to enjoy!”
Jennina O’Neill, Metquarter Centre Manager said:
“We’re delighted to see tenants, particularly neighbouring small businesses supporting each other during these difficult financial times and what a lovely way to do so.”
‘Ciao Bella’ and ‘Ciao Lad’ mugs and coasters designed by The Art Quarter Liverpool are available to purchase now at Caffetteria Dantonio.
The Metquarter is also a social hub, with entertainment options such as the Everyman Theatre and the GPO Food Hall, the newest operator bringing together some of Liverpool’s best food vendors under one roof.
For more information and opening times please for The Metquarter visit here.
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