The iconic Welsh mountain cafe, Caffi Moel Siabod, has reopened in Eryri, sparking a name row. Situated in Capel Curig and popular among walkers for its proximity to Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and other peaks in Eryri National Park, the cafe closed earlier this year. However, it has now been reopened by Nadeem Abbasi, who owns multiple Londis stores and Abbasi’s restaurant in Betws-y-Coed. He renamed the cafe to Caffi Siabod, citing its location under Moel Siabod mountain.
This renaming decision has not been without controversy, as the former operators expressed discontent over the use of the Siabod name. They have relocated to run a new venture in Pentrefelin, near Criccieth, under the name The Siabod at the Eisteddfa Fisheries. The dispute has sparked debate on social media, with differing opinions on the matter.
Despite the tensions, Nadeem Abbasi remains focused on collaborating with the community to establish a warm and inclusive cafe space. He aims to make the cafe a hub for locals and visitors alike, offering more than just dining services. Plans include introducing a store, a mobile library, and a mobile post office, with potential evening events in the future.
To support his vision, Abbasi has recruited three individuals and plans to expand the team to about 12 staff members by next spring. He emphasised the significance of the cafe as a gathering place for walkers, hikers, bikers, and the local community. While acknowledging the former operators’ efforts, he is determined to maintain a positive relationship with the community and steer clear of further conflicts.
The name dispute reflects the cafe’s deep-rooted importance in the area and the value attached by both operators. As the cafe reopens its doors under new management, the hope is to restore its role as a community space and continue serving patrons for years to come.