East Sussex Attracts International Coffee Guru for new venture

A man who has spent his entire career in the world of coffee has picked Lewes for his next venture.

Andrew Knight, 72, has spent 40-plus years importing, roasting, blending and distributing coffee to high-end aficionados around the world. 

From visiting the coffee plantations and producers of South America to importing the finest green beans and roasting to order, he knows everything there is to know about our favourite hot brew. As part of that business, Andrew was responsible for supplying coffee to Harrods and many other high-end outlets throughout the UK. He is considered one of the leading industry experts on coffee and coffee trends. 

Andrew said: “I love everything to do with coffee and when Costa Coffee pulled out of Lewes train station an opportunity presented itself.” 

He opened The Espresso Room in the station after being alerted to the vacant unit by the council. “I feel Lewes is a town that’s very supportive of independent shops, while also appreciating really good coffee,” he said.

At the same time, Andrew spotted a stone archway under the bridge by the station and inspiration hit. “It was the ideal spot for a wood-fired pizza oven.  It was so unique, it was too good an opportunity to pass on.

“When I was based in London, I visited East Sussex frequently – Lewes, in particular, stood out for its independent and bijou culinary offerings so I’m thrilled to be part of this community now.”

Andrew opened Fuoco Pizza early this year. It is tucked away under a bridge-arch opposite the Depot in central Lewes. With twinkly lights, rustic stone walls, large couches and the smell of wood fired Italian fare, Pizza Fuoco quickly become a favourite haunt for those who’ve spotted it. Unsurprisingly, Pizza Fuoco has also become an Instagram sensation. Fuoco is the Italian for fire. It is open Thursday to Sunday. 

Find it on Instagram: @pizzafuocolewes or visit: www.pizzafuoco.co.uk