Bath’s well-loved coffee shop, Colonna and Small’s, has seen a remarkable turnaround, jumping from a one-star to a five-star hygiene rating after a council reinspection this week. The artisanal café had been awaiting a revisit from local authorities for more than a year since receiving its initial low rating.
According to a spokesperson for the café, the original one-star rating — received in February 2025 — was due to a required change in how a downstairs preparation and storage area was utilized. They described the initial score as “severe” and emphasized that the necessary adjustments were implemented immediately.
On March 31, an unannounced inspection confirmed significant improvements. The inspector noted, “Good improvements made since previous inspection. Now a five-star rated business – well done.”
READ MORE: Bath Rugby Name Full-Strength Squad for Crucial Champions Cup Last 16 Clash Against Saracens
READ MORE: Yeovil Teacher Banned for Sharing Inappropriate Personal Details with Pupils
Despite multiple requests for a reinspection submitted through the council’s food safety portal, Colonna and Small’s expressed “frustration” over the prolonged delay. “We are confident that our environments, systems, and processes adhere to good practice and anticipated a much better score upon reassessment,” the spokesperson added.
The café also raised concerns about the handling of the initial inspection, and Bath and North East Somerset Council reportedly issued an apology over the original visit. The council has been contacted for comment.
Customers remain steadfast supporters of the business. One reviewer on Bath Live’s Facebook page remarked, “Surprising to see Colonna and Small’s one-star rating was given in the first place, considering their attention to detail with the quality of everything else.”
Known for its artisanal specialty coffee, Colonna and Small’s boasts a Google rating of 4.7 out of 5 from nearly 1,500 reviews. The business has been a staple in Bath since its establishment in 2009.