The popular Silent Hands Cafe has reopened its doors in a new location in South Lismore.

Owner Lilly Cook first opened Silent Hands in Woodlark Street in December 2022, but had to close the doors in 2023 due to illness.

"I still suffer regularly with complications from the injuries I sustained in a serious car accident in Armidale 4 years ago," Lilly told the Lismore App, "Which flared up badly during my trading period on Woodlark Street and led me to take a temporary break for two years. I still have complications.

"I chose the South Lismore location for its smaller premises for easier cleaning/serving management to reduce the impact of heavy physical work on myself. It's a much more relaxed ambience here."

(Lilly Cook at the counter and ready to serve)

Those who visited Silent Hands on Woodlark Street would know that Lilly is deaf, and her cafe became a gathering place for the large and active Deaf community in the Lismore and Northern Rivers region. While that is a benefit, Lilly says that everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the food and friendly atmosphere. There are Auslan interpreters at all times to make communication easy, in case you don't know sign language.

The coffee/tea and handmade food have remained the same; however, there have been some changes.

"I enjoy making cakes and dealing with customers, so that's why I still want to continue my cafe business. But this time, I registered Silent Hands Bakery to own both trading names.

"My business is mainly a small boutique-style bakery rather than a proper cafe. All my cakes are of a homemade style to give customers authentic food, just like the sweet treats made by grandma's in the old days. 

"I also have a little breakfast and lunch menu with its usual bacon and egg rolls, and lunch has hamburgers, chicken burgers, vegan/vegetarian burgers, hot chips, plus the usual fresh/toasted sandwiches. 

"I also serve good coffees, teas and milkshakes. Hearty soups are available on most days in the mornings."

The popular items on the menu are fresh cheesecakes, gluten-free options are available, and hummingbird cakes. Lilly also has vegan and vegetarian options on the menu.

Silent Hands is open 6 days a week. Monday to Friday from 7:30am until 3pm and Saturday from 8am to 1pm.

You will find Silent Hands in the Norco Rural complex on Wilson Street, South Lismore.