Oakham’s Burley Corner Set for Zen Transformation Buddha Bar & Brew Plans Unveiled.

Oakham’s Burley Corner Set for Zen Transformation Buddha Bar & Brew Plans Unveiled.

January 2025

Oakham’s local food scene is bracing for a stylish new addition. If recently submitted planning applications are green-lit, a dual-concept venue named Buddha Bar & Brew will breathe new life into a vacant retail unit at the town’s prominent Burley Corner.

The proposal outlines a versatile space that shifts its identity with the sun a tranquil coffee sanctuary by day and a sophisticated wine bar by night.

Located directly below the well-known Sarpech Indian restaurant, the unit is poised to become a hub for commuters, remote workers, and evening socialites. According to the planning documents (ref: 2026/0063/FUL) submitted by Tanita Vichathum, who lives in  Oakham, the venue will operate with two distinct "vibes"

Daytime: A coffee shop serving pastries, cakes, and fresh salads.

Evening (5pm – 11pm): A refined wine bar atmosphere.

Perhaps the most intriguing feature of the plan is the inclusion of a dedicated sushi counter. something Oakham has seen twice before. While the menu sounds gourmet, the application clarifies a unique operational detail: there will be no cooking on-site. By focusing on cold-prep delicacies like sushi and salads, the business aims to provide high-quality dining without the need for heavy industrial extraction or kitchen flues, keeping the footprint light and the atmosphere fresh.

The submitted floor plans reveal a clever use of space designed for intimacy and efficiency. Despite the multi-functional nature of the business, the layout is streamlined to accommodate approximately 25 customers.

While the change-of-use application is the current focus, a separate license to serve alcohol will be sought at a later date.

The local community is currently being invited to share their thoughts via the Public Notice Portal. 

The consultation period is active and will officially close on March 11. Residents can expect a final decision from the planning committee toward the end of next month.

If approved, Buddha Bar & Brew could quickly become the go-to "third space" for Oakham residents looking for a bit of Zen with their espresso—or their evening glass of Riesling.