Revival inspiration

Studio Cafe's vision is inspired by one woman’s selfless drive and ambition.  Ethel Hill, now 96 years old, opened a fruit and veg shop (McCormick’s) closely followed by Bangor’s famous bakery (Brenda’s) in the early 1940s. Widowed after only two years of marriage Ethel single handedly ran two businesses.   Her bakery was renowned throughout North Down for Irish Potato bread, cherry cakes, wheaten and pancakes.

Today the Studio Cafe aspires to follow her legacy.  Kyle, Ethel’s grandson, and his wife Ashley run and manage Design Ethos and Studio Cafe.  Together they continue their Gran’s passion for baking 70 years on.

Ethel Hill
aged 95
Studio Café's
inspiration.

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Ethel second from left at the Training College, Municipal College of Technology, Belfast where she excelled in baking and cookery.

Last photograph of Ethel and her husband Willy before a tragic car accident which resulted in his death. Taken in County Kerry September 1943.

Opened single handed, Ethel's first shop was a major landmark. McCormick’s named after her then surname sold fruit and veg within the heart of Bangor’s seafront (Bridge Street). The bakery soon followed next door. Further success resulted in a move to larger premises on Hamilton Road.