Plant Hustler Deli is part of the Plant Hustler family in Christchurch Road.

Bustling Plant Hustler Deli

Owner Aaron Bryans, 42, manages both the new deli and the Plant Hustler restaurant in the Boscombe road.

The introduction of the deli, which opened its doors on April 24, follows restaurant customers' growing interest and intrigue in the plant-based products that Aaron was using.

He said: "I opened the deli as a lot of people used to come into the restaurant to ask questions about the plant-based meats, and I thought that opening the deli would help to reform the restaurant.

"Being in Boscombe is a challenge, but it brings a new, diverse element to the area by offering plant-based and dairy free food. I think there is a market for it here.

"We’re only one of three plant-based butchers in the UK.

"Good weather actually impacts the restaurant, so I want to cash in on people visiting the beach who can come into the deli and buy the stock.

"People going down to the beach can stop off at Plant Hustler and buy some salad and plant-based meats from the deli."

Plant Hustler deli counter

As well as making the most of Dorset residents and visitors flocking to the beach, Aaron is keen to "showcase plant-based eating."

Aaron said: "Plant-based eating has come a long way over the past two years but a lot of people are still quite unsure. I think that with the quality of food that’s available now, why would you not want to try something that is plant-based?

"Mock meat is such a good equivalent to a sandwich filler.

"An example I like to use is that you can buy bath bombs anywhere, but if you go to Lush you can ask questions and find out more information about the products. I want that element in my deli.

"A lot of high streets are so overwhelmed by companies with big marketing budgets and when you go to places like Tesco and Sainsbury’s they have about 15 big brands to try. Some are good, some are rubbish. At the deli, we advise people on who to use and who to try and sell the best of the best."

Plans are in place to expand the deli's offerings in the coming weeks to provide a wide range of food and dishes to customers.

Plant Hustler deli

Aaron said: "At the moment we offer a static range as we’re trying to find synergy with what our customers are shopping for. It’s a case of learning about what they want.

"We currently offer plant-based meat, salads and will soon be offering jacket potatoes, a salad bar and a 'grab and go' counter.

"The deli uses big, key brand names such as OmniPork as well as products you can’t find in this area.

"Diversity will come when we launch the salad bar and 'grab and go' counter.

"The general take of the deli by customers has been really good and has surpassed my expectations.

"Some customers easily spend between £50 to £100. I think it will get better and better with time."

Plant Hustler Deli is open Monday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm and can be found in 617 Christchurch Road.

Plant Hustler restaurant is located at 623 Christchurch Road.