The Steamhouse, a Midlands-born bagel and brunch favourite announced this month that is going national. We thought this would be the perfect opportunity to put the spotlight on Ash and the team as we’ve been with them since day one.
The Steamhouse is on an exciting journey to bring it’s unforgettable brunch spots to even more people!
They’ve launched The Steamhouse Franchise venture to launch another 20 stores over the next three years. Alongside expansion, Steamhouse is always busy cooking up some fresh menu ideas to keep things exciting for it’s customers!
We caught up with Ashley Baker – Founder & Director, to discuss this exciting announcement.
Can you tell us about how Steamhouse started and what inspired you to open your first site?
Steamhouse started with a leap of faith. We sold our house, bought a vintage VW van, and hit the road serving coffee and cakes at festivals and weddings. After two years of long drives and tent-sleeping, we craved a permanent spot — and that’s when we found our first store in Leamington Spa in 2016 – the catalyst for everything to come. We chose bagels because they were the perfect mix of unique and familiar, and they’ve been at the heart of Steamhouse ever since.
How would you describe Steamhouse’s style and vibe for someone who’s never visited?
We’re a passionate crew of foodies who love good times and good food. Steamhouse is all about fresh, hand-rolled bagels, incredible bakes, and great coffee, served in a welcoming, laid-back space full of character. Think bold, creative, and a little bit rebellious.
You’re on an exciting growth journey across the Midlands — what’s been the biggest milestone or proudest moment so far?
Each store opening is as memorable as the first. Building our own bakery from scratch so we could control the quality of everything we serve was a massive milestone too — it allowed us to stay true to what makes Steamhouse special while expanding across the Midlands.
How did your relationship with Beanworks begin?
From day one we were looking for a coffee partner who shared our passion for quality and authenticity. Whether someone’s grabbing a bagel, and a latte to-go or sitting down for a long brunch at The Depot, great coffee ties everything together. We connected with David at Beanworks and it immediately felt like the right fit. Beanworks’ offer today is not just exceptional coffee but also a genuine understanding of how important the full customer experience is for us – whilst supporting us with barista training and machinery.
As our stores have expanded, our coffee program has evolved with them. With everything from our ‘signature’ house blend to own-label retail coffee which is available for customers to buy in store — we’ve kept raising the bar on quality and creativity.
“Beanworks just gets us. They’ve been a real partner, not just a supplier — helping us stay true to our standards and supporting us every step of the way. Great people, great coffee, great support and we’re so happy to have them on board for our future plans!”
If Steamhouse could open anywhere in the world, where would it be?
New York feels like the spiritual home of bagels — it would be incredible to take Steamhouse to the Big Apple someday!