Antonio Monica, owner of Caffetteria Dantonio located has been serving coffee to local shoppers in the centre since 2005, although he has faced increased difficulty competing with bigger coffee chains.
Earlier this year, a Facebook post from a customer of the coffee shop went viral on social media gaining over five thousand shares and hundreds of comments after seeing Antonio’s coffee stall. The post pleaded with other members of the public to support small businesses and ditch popular high-street coffee chains. Since then, small business owner Antonio Monica has received an overwhelming response and has a constant stream of daily customers eager to try his coffee, pastries and freshly made sandwiches.
Known by his customers for his iconic Scouse-Italian phrases, 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, ran by a collective of artists from Liverpool and the Wirral create a wide range of work using various media such as painting, illustration, photography, greeting cards and jewellery. The Art Quarter artist, Karen Edwards’ latest designs to support Antonio are now available to purchase from Caffetteria Dantonio coffee stand on the ground floor of 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.