A new café has opened in Leyton after a small business owner fought of competition for one of the more scenic spots in Waltham Forest.

Visitors to Leyton’s Jubilee Park can now enjoy food and drink served by ‘Chicchi’.

Owner Metin Esen jumped at the chance to run his third cafe in the open space when it was put out to tender by the council.

He has promised visitors ‘something special’.

“It’s wonderful to branch out and to open somewhere a little different. The park is such a beautiful location and even while going through the process of getting the place set up and open we have had plenty of people eager to make use of the place,” he added.

“We offer a healthier range of options than your run of the mill greasy spoon – there’s no fry-ups, but plenty of salads, pasta and freshly made sandwiches.”

The café shares the same building as the Eton Manor Running Club, close to the new bridge at the heart of Leyton Jubilee Park.

The park has transformed the 14 hectares of Ive Farm and Marsh Lane Playing Fields into a single open space.

It already has a pirate ship play area, outdoor gym, football pitches, basketball court and a pavilion.

Leader of Waltham Forest Council, Chris Robbins, said that the new business will enhance the appeal of the already popular park.

During a council consultation, 68 per cent of local residents who responded said that they would like to see a café open in the park.