IT has become a Dartmouth Park landmark, a place for lazy breakfasts and plenty of gossip, along with a touch of celebrity watching, writes Dan Carrier.

The family-run Bold Cafe in York Rise is the haunt of the likes of actors Simon Farnaby, Noel Fielding and Benedict Cumberbatch.

It had already earned fame as the ‘Guinea Pig’ cafe in Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s smash-hit series Fleabag – and when owners Ibo and Ninah Aksu took over the place six years ago after moving from Istanbul, they won hearts of regulars with their authentic Turkish cuisine.

Now the couple hope to expand their business, and have hit upon a unique way to garner the support of their customers.

The couple are set to take over a former pub in Dartmouth Park Hill, and have asked fans of their food to donate funds to help raise the £40,000 they need to make their dream come true.

In return, any contributor will get vouchers to eat at the new restaurant when it opens.

“We have tried lots of recipes, made lots of coffee, and lots of friendships started in this little cafe,” Mr Aksu said.

“We have been through a lot together and every single day we have enjoyed being part of this amazing community and want to thank everyone for welcoming us. We have felt at home since day one.”

The couple – who have a son, Atlas, announced this week their new plans.

Mr Aksu added: “Now it’s time for a second chapter, one we have been dreaming of for a long time.

“Formerly known as The House pub on Dartmouth Park Hill, it will soon be our second venue and we plan to call it Bold and the Aegean Tavern – but we need your support to make ‘the house’ our new home.”

Serving up classic Aegean cuisine, the couple say they will expand on their popular Bold menu and have a focus on traditional fish and meat dishes from the region