15 hours ago
- Automotive
- Press and Journal
The Drive at Haddo: First look inside car café near Methlick
The Drive at Haddo, the much anticipated car café near Methlick, will be opening in the next two weeks.
That's according to director James Evans, who has been leading the preparation efforts at the Aberdeenshire café.
Since the news broke of the cafe's opening, social media has erupted with excitement.
'It has gone mental,' James says, 'It has blown up.
'On a daily basis we've got people coming here to ask when we're opening.'
The café is kitted out with three flat-screen TVs to display Formula 1, MotoGP and Le Mans.
There is also a gaming station for children – and adults – to brush up on their Gran Turismo racing simulation skills on PS5.
The cafe, owned by Haddo Estate, is situated on the B9170 near the Tarves turn-off.
The site was formerly known as Formartine's Shop and Eatery, which closed in 2021.
The renovated space is now fully decked out with tables and chairs at around 100 covers, plus new flooring and décor, and will be ready to open in the next fortnight.
The car café, one of the few of its kind in Scotland, has gained 3k Facebook followers in a matter of weeks.
It will be a space for car meets, where automotive enthusiasts and car clubs can congregate to display their vehicles.
One Instagram user said: 'Can't wait, great to see more car enthusiast locations!'
While another added: 'Exactly what Aberdeenshire needed! Can't wait for this to open.'
While it is certainly a hit with car enthusiasts, James insists that the café will be a space for everyone.
He adds: 'I want people to understand that they don't have to like cars or motorbikes to come here, it's not just for that – it's for everyone.
'I know we're trying something new here – it's not what people are used to – but I think the area absolutely needs it.
'It is different, I understand that. But I hope everyone loves it.
'I want the local community to know they can come here at any time and enjoy the space.
'I have tried to be as inclusive for everyone as I can: dog owners, café lovers, coffee lovers, food lovers.'
James shared further details on the cafe's menu, which will feature a wide variety of burgers and racetrack-themed loaded fries.
Each plate of loaded fries will depict a different racetrack. For example, Knockhill Racing Circuit in Fife will be represented by haggis loaded fries, and the German Hockenheimring circuit by a currywurst-inspired loaded fries.
Huntly family-run business Rizza's will be providing the cafe's ice cream, with dairy-free and dog-friendly ice cream also available.
Milkshakes, coffee, cakes, pies and pastries will also be on offer.
It will be counter service at the new café, which will be open 8am-6pm every day when it opens.
The sleek interior of the café is paired with outside seating perfect for the summer weather.
The team are considering adding awnings later in the year too.
The café will be dog-friendly outside and in the lounge area, but not in the main café space.
Dogs can get fed too, as there's a little treat station and water bowls for your furry friends.
The outside play area at The Drive at Haddo is shaping up, with tyres donated from local farmers.
There's also an inside play area with toy cars, a blackboard, books, a play kitchen and more.
Last minute preparations are now underway before the café opens in the next few weeks.
You can keep an eye on their Facebook page for the opening date.
We will also be reviewing the cafe's menu soon.
Meanwhile, the café are looking for cooks to join the team. If you're interested get in touch with James via email here: thedrivehaddo@
