In our latest series, Behind the Brand, we’re taking you inside the vibrant stores and restaurants of St Christopher's Place. Get an exclusive look behind the scenes and discover the stories that make these spots so special.

This month, we're spotlighting Morena, a coffee and dining spot with influences from Latin-America. We sat down with co-founder Valentina to learn more about the passion and vision behind this unique destination…

Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about Morena?

Hi, I'm Valentina Beleno, and I'm proud to be one of the co-founders of Morena. This is our second location, and we couldn't be more excited to share our journey with you. The original Morena was born in the vibrant setting of St Christopher's Place, which has played an essential role in shaping our concept and identity.

Morena is a Latin American-inspired restaurant, and everything we do reflects that rich cultural influence. We specialise in crafting pastries that are deeply inspired by Latin American traditions, as well as serving savoury dishes and unique, flavourful drinks.

Who has had the most significant influence or inspiration on your journey?

I know it might sound like a bit of a cliché, but I genuinely have to say that my biggest inspiration has always been my parents.

Growing up, I watched them work incredibly hard, managing their own business. Seeing their dedication and resilience day in and day out made a lasting impression on me. It sparked my own entrepreneurial spirit and gave me the drive to create something meaningful.

Building Morena from the ground up has been a journey of learning, growth, and perseverance. I think many people don’t realise just how challenging it can be to run a business, but for me, every challenge has been worth it. The past four years have been a whirlwind of experiences, and I've truly loved every moment of it.

Is there a dish that you think people should know about?

Our signature drinks are exclusive to Morena’s two locations, including our lovely spot at St Christopher's Place.

One of our most popular offerings is the Red Delicious Americano—a unique take on the classic drink that has been a favourite among our guests. We also serve a peach and lychee lemonade, which not only tastes incredible but is also visually stunning, with its vibrant colours and fresh garnishes.

Another favourite that we brought over from the original Morena is our breakfast burrito. Not everyone knows that we serve it here, but it’s something our regulars really love once they discover it - it’s a hidden gem on our menu.

What do you love about St Christopher's Place?

What makes our location at St Christopher's Place so special is the setting itself. It's such a lively and multicultural destination, which perfectly aligns with the spirit of Morena.

We wanted to create a space that feels welcoming to everyone, where guests can come to experience a taste of Latin America in a warm and inviting atmosphere. St Christopher's Place has this unique blend of energy and charm, which makes it the ideal home for our second restaurant.

We’re thrilled to be part of a community that embraces diversity, culture, and creativity, and we hope everyone who visits us feels the love and passion we put into every dish and drink we make.

Planning your visit to Morena at St Christopher's place - see more on our visit page.