Exclusive – Knoops strengthens leadership with COO and MD hires: Luxury hot chocolate shop brand Knoops has strengthened its leadership team with four new appointments, as it looks to accelerate its expansion plans here and abroad, Propel has learned. These include Jo Brett, formerly of Pret A Manger and Starbucks, as chief operating officer, and Kai Hepworth, previously of Marston’s and Costa Coffee, as UK managing director. Brett, who will report to Knoops chief executive William Gordon-Harris, brings 25 years food and beverage experience to the business. Over that time, she has held various executive roles including president of Pret’s US operations, chief executive of Hotel Chocolat Saint Lucia, and most recently, senior vice-president of Starbucks Middle East and North Africa for the Alshaya Group. Hepworth, who was previously operations director at Marston’s, Costa Coffee and Bill’s, joins Knoops as managing director of its 25-strong UK business and will report into Brett. Meanwhile, Lush co-founder and former Hotel Chocolat chair, Andrew Gerrie, is stepping up to the role of chairman of Knoops, having joined the company in January as a non-executive director. Gerrie is joined on the board by Martin Long, who has been appointed as a non-executive director. The company said Long brings with him accountancy and management experience, having served as a chief financial officer and chief executive across his career to date. Knoops said that Long has extensive experience in “scaling store based and on-line businesses to international household names” – specifically, as former chief executive of Game Group. He joins Julian Metcalfe, co-founder of Pret A Manger and founder of Itsu, and Alice Avis, former chief executive and chair of the Sanctuary Spa Group, on the Knoops board. Gordon-Harris said: “I’m delighted to welcome such an outstanding group of senior industry figures to Knoops. They bring with them vast experience of helping to grow and run brands of all kinds around the world. Their choice to work at Knoops should be taken as a clear signal that Knoops is set for high paced global growth.” Knoops, which plans to open sites in the US and China this year, expects its footprint in Britain to grow to around 40 sites by the end of this year. Earlier this week, the company opened a site in Norwich, with upcoming openings planned in Cardiff and Colchester. At the end of last year, Knoops opened its first international site, in the City Centre Mirdif shopping mall in Dubai. The company said it was also engaging in franchise conversations in territories like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Egypt and Turkey. The business previously said it had a target of 300 in the UK “within a few years” and was bidding to open up to 5,000 stores worldwide in the next decade.

 

Sponsored message – Orderswift makes order and pay solutions fee-free until April 2026: Orderswift, the hospitality digital ordering and payments company, is making its Order at Table and Pay at Table solutions fee-free until April 2026, to support operators facing rising costs. “This is an incredibly tough time for the sector,” said Matt Gilbert, co-founder of Orderswift. “With additional costs from the latest Budget taking effect next month, many operators will be under immense pressure. We believe that if hospitality wins, we win – that’s why we’re removing fees for our on-premises solutions, helping businesses serve more customers while keeping costs low.” This offer is open to new and existing customers, with sign-ups available until 30 April. To get started, click here or email yani@orderswift.com. If you have a sponsored story you would like to see featured in this newsletter position, email paul.charity@propelinfo.com.

 

Panel about ways to evolve the customer experience to be held at Excellence in Pub & Bar Retailing Conference, open for bookings with 20% discount on tickets for Premium Club subscribers: A panel session about ways to evolve the customer experience will be held at the Excellence in Pub & Bar Retailing Conference. The all-day conference takes place on Wednesday, 14 May at One Moorgate Place in London and is open for bookings. The panel, which features Jonathon Swaine, managing director of Shepherd Neame, Charlie McVeigh non-executive director at the Revel Collective, Oisin Rogers, co-founder of The Devonshire and Joycelyn Neve, founder and managing director Seafood Pub Company, will also discuss the challenge the sector faces in attracting new customers, and whether loyalty schemes can play a part. For the full speaker schedule, click here. Tickets are £295 plus VAT for operators and £345 plus VAT for suppliers. There is a 20% discount for operators and suppliers who are Premium Club subscribers. Email: kai.kirkman@propelinfo.com to book places.

 

Next Who’s Who of UK Hospitality to feature 52 updated entries and seven new companies, released on Friday: The next Who’s Who of UK Hospitality will feature 52 updated entries and seven new companies when it is released to Premium Club members on Friday (21 March), at midday. The database now features 894 companies, and this month’s edition includes more than 240,000 words of content. The companies, listed in alphabetical order, will have their most recent results reported, as well as broader information around Ebitda, plans and trading style available. The database merges Companies House information, interviews and other public information to provide an easy to reference and exhaustive guide to the sector. Premium Club subscribers also receive access to five other databases: the Multi-Site Database, the New Openings Database, the Turnover & Profits Blue Book, the UK Food and Beverage Franchisor Database and the UK Food and Beverage Franchisee Database. All Premium Club subscribers will be offered a 20% discount on tickets to Propel paid-for events including Excellence in Pub Retail (May 2025) and discounts on specialist sector reports such as the International Brands report. Operators that are Premium Club subscribers are also able to send up to four members of staff to each of our four Multi-Club Conferences for free. Premium Club subscribers receive their daily Propel Info newsletter 11 hours earlier than standard subscribers, at 7pm the evening before. They also receive videos of presentations at eight Propel conference events two weeks after they are held. This represents around 100 videos of industry insight over the course of the year. Premium Club subscribers will be sent a dedicated monthly newsletter that will highlight key updates in the sector and direct subscribers to all the vital content their membership offers. Premium Club subscribers also receive exclusive opinion columns every Friday at 5pm, which include the thoughts of Propel group editor Mark Wingett and a host of industry leaders from across the sector. A Premium Club subscription costs an annual sum of £495 plus VAT for operators and £595 plus VAT for suppliers. Companies can now have an unlimited number of people receive access to Premium Club for a year for £995 plus VAT – whether they are an operator or supplier. Email kai.kirkman@propelinfo.com today to sign up.

 

Blue Note Jazz Cafe boss says restrictive licensing laws are killing music after late licence refused for London debut: Steven Bensusan, president of Blue Note Entertainment Group, the owner of the Blue Note Jazz Cafe, said he has been left “surprised” and “confused” after his late licence application for a new site in London was turned down, making him question support for live music in the capital. The club had applied to Westminster City Council to remain open until 1am serving alcohol. However, in February, the Met Police objected to the jazz club’s application over fears it could cause an “uptick in crime”. Bensusan – son of the original Blue Note Cafe founder Danny Bensusan – told Sky News: “If the council isn’t giving us a late licence, I can’t imagine how it would be supportive of other smaller venues, which are important for the ecosystem in general. For music to survive and continue to thrive and grow, you need the feeder venues. They need the smaller venues, and you need the venues like the Blue Note. It’s important for the music.” The planned venue at a former gym in St Martin’s Lane, Covent Garden, had been set to become the bar’s flagship European site. Bensusan said: “In every city that we’ve opened the club, it’s rolled out the red carpet and really tried to go above and beyond and want us there, because it realises that we’re good for the economy. We generate a lot of jobs, and we bring not just nightlife, but a cultural moment to the city. I’ve never experienced this before.” Bensusan said the rejection of his late licence highlights a bigger issue. He added: “There seems to be a problem in general. A lot of music venues have closed over the years since covid and they’re not coming back. Many people believe it has to do with a lot of restrictive policies like this.” Bensusan has flagged the “more mature and respectful” nature of the jazz audience, but police concerns seem to be around guests falling prey to crime rather than perpetrating it. Bensusan has now filed an appeal. A council spokesperson said it “wanted to continue offering aspiring artists the opportunity to share their passion for music with others” but it was important to “strike a balance between supporting music venues and the needs of residents”. The original Blue Note Jazz Cafe opened in 1981 in New York City and now has nine sister venues around the world including in Tokyo, Shanghai and Milan. A new venue in Los Angeles will open this summer.

 

Fawn James promoted to CEO of Soho Estates: Fawn James has been promoted to chief executive of property investment group Soho Estates, following 14 years as a director. She will succeed her father, John James, who has led the business for more than two decades and will stay on its board as a non-executive director. The appointment comes into effect on 1 April 2025, where James will lead the company’s strategy and growth. Soho Estates has delivered several projects over the last decade including the redevelopment of Walker’s Court; the restoration and refurbishment of Kettner’s Townhouse and the original Soho House; and the creation of Ilona Rose House, a mixed-use development with offices and James Court, a café and restaurant-lined mews linking Manette Street to Greek Street. Fawn James said: “Soho has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. My grandfather inspired in me a deep pride in being part of London’s creative heart, and my father taught me to respect its history and understand our responsibility to help it thrive. I am committed to building on that legacy, focusing on thoughtful restoration and redevelopment, supporting the local community, and ensuring Soho remains vibrant and dynamic for generations to come.” John James added: “This is a natural handover for us, and I am incredibly proud to pass the baton to Fawn. Soho Estates posted record revenue in 2024, which reflects both the strength of demand and how well we and our tenants have navigated challenging conditions.”

 

Job of the day: COREcruitment is working with a dining concept in Central London seeking a general manager. A COREcruitment spokesperson said: “The concept is renowned for serving modern, delicious delights in a warm and welcoming environment, creating unforgettable guest experiences.” The salary up to £60,000. For more information, email kate@corecruitment.com.

 

Fired Up Collective founder – we’re trying to lean into the sector challenges, being offered a lot of pub opportunities: Andy Lennox, founder of the Fired Up Collective, the Nusara and West Wessex Pub Company operator, has said the business is “trying to lean into” the current sector challenges to create value, but while turnover is up on a like-for-like basis, “conversion is incredibly hard”. It comes as the business is to expand its footprint into Hampshire with the acquisition of The Old Beams in Ibsley, Ringwood. The deal marks the first investment in the county under the group’s current three-strong West Wessex Pub Company, which Lennox said reinforces his commitment to revitalise historic pubs with strong community appeal. The group also operates the four-strong Thai concept Nusara and the pan-African Zim Braai restaurant in Bournemouth. Lennox told Propel: “We are still looking at expansion opportunities, but more on the pub side at the moment. We are getting offered a lot of pubs, but it is about finding that diamond in the rough. Turnover is up, but converting that into a profit is very hard. It is a daily fight to convert. We are trying to lean into the challenges to create value,, but the Budget was a disaster for the sector and the costs it has added and will add make that really hard. On the restaurant side of things, it is a case of battening down the hatches. We may do a new site next year, but at present, it is more likely to be a pub. The government needs to give us something, a light at the end of the tunnel, but I can’t see that happening.” Lennox said the acquisition of the Old Beams site aligns with Fired Up Collective’s strategy of acquiring and enhancing heritage venues while maintaining their unique charm. Plans are already in motion to elevate the 11th-century pub’s offering. Lennox said: “The Old Beams is a stunning, historic pub with huge potential. This is an exciting first step into Hampshire for us, and we’re looking forward to bringing our signature blend of great hospitality, quality food and a warm welcome to the New Forest community.”

Scottish family entertainment group outlines plan to grow to 20 sites in next five years as it prepares to open debut English WonderWorld venue: Scottish family entertainment business WonderWorld Group has outlined plans to grow to 20 sites in the next four to five years as it prepares to open the first English location for its WonderWorld soft play concept. The company, which operates six WonderWorld soft play and AirThrill adventure park centres in Scotland, and an AirThrill site in Lewisham in south east London, is due to open a WonderWorld in Antelope Park in Thornhill, Southampton, this spring. Managing director Narinder Singh Baryah, who joined the group in September 2021 after a long career in financial services, told Insider Media: “We are particularly interested in expanding around major population centres, with the Midlands, Bristol and Cardiff among potential targets, as well as the north west. Southampton will be our 13th unit, and our goal over the next four to five years is to reach 20 sites. Rather than having sites absolutely everywhere, we’re focused on securing the right locations with the best offering, with further growth in England and possibly a couple of new sites in Scotland if the right opportunities arise. Finding the right unit, both in size and location, is crucial but also easier said than done. In the past, older industrial properties were more readily available, but the rise of online shopping and demand from large logistics firms for warehouse space have driven up costs and reduced availability. Key factors for a new site would include strong transport links, ample parking and proximity to family populations, all while ensuring we don’t overlap with existing operators.” WonderWorld’s Southampton site will introduce its first sensory zone, designed for children with additional needs. The venue will also feature go-karts, the group’s first Tubby slide – where guests ride in large donuts down a gentle slope – and its first role-play village. There will also be volcano slides, interactive football pitches and an on-site café. Baryah also said WonderWorld is focusing more on a core soft play element rather than branching into things like virtual reality (VR). “The sector is moving more towards things like VR, and I personally feel there is a balance to be had between the actual physical benefits of play and having a little bit of interactivity, so we have been cautious about not going too heavily into VR, because I think at our core, we are about children's plays,” he added. “While VR has many advantages, particularly for older children, we predominantly cater from six months up to 10 to 11 years of age, so we are still very much focused on the physical benefits of play and limiting the element of VR that's coming into the sector.”

 

Northern Irish entrepreneur serves up £3m padel investment, plans eight locations this year: Northern Ireland businessman Pete Boyle is backing the rapid rise of padel with a £3m investment to establish courts at eight locations. Boyle, known for his Let’s Go Hydro brand, is leading the Let’s Go Padel venture, which aims to roll out 50 courts across the region this year. Sites have already been secured in Belfast, Londonderry, Coleraine and Omagh. Three courts are currently in operation at Let’s Go Hydro in Carryduff, Belfast, with plans to add ten more. There are also proposals to build Northern Ireland’s first professional padel arena, capable of seating 300 spectators for competitive matches. Boyle is exploring ways to repurpose disused tennis courts and other facilities to expand the sport’s reach. Padel has about 30 million players worldwide and is regarded as one of the fastest-growing racquet sports. Boyle told the News Letter: “Padel is a billion dollar industry and we’re keen to bring it to Northern Ireland at scale over the coming months. Our current courts book out fast, as the sport has grown in popularity, and we can see the potential in it. Let’s Go Padel follows on the back of the success of Let’s Go Hydro, and we are actively looking for opportunities to breathe life into disused tennis courts around Northern Ireland, and other suitable leisure facilities.

 

Neighbourhood private members’ club concept to evolve and reopen with new pub included: The Dally, a new neighbourhood private members’ club concept which opened in London’s Islington last spring, is to relaunch as an “open clubhouse”, complete with new pub. The first The Dally – a 4,000 square-foot, three-storey venue in Upper Street – was launched by Daisy Baldwin and Claire Ilardi-Crow. It will reopen under its new guise on Monday, 28 March. Baldwin said: “A few weeks ago, we concluded that The Dally as a members’ club wasn’t working. I could talk for hours on the reasons why, what we got wrong, and the difficulties of a neighbourhood club compared to a central London club, but that is for another day. Ultimately, the finances of a small club do not work, and because we pitched our membership fees at an affordable level, it left us with a mountain to climb to get to break even – something we haven’t been able to do. With most of my life savings already poured into the build, finding enough cash to keep going every month became monumentally stressful. Sleepless nights don’t even begin to cover it. So, with a heavy heart, we went back to the drawing board and looked at what has worked over the last year and what hasn’t, and this has led to the conclusion that the members’ club couldn’t continue and onto our first major pivot. So, onto Dally 2.0. The same wonderful building with its hidden cocktail bar, the Loft with the mirror ball hosting comedy, supper clubs, live music, dating, dancing, quizzes and big screen sports. The beautiful first floor Tyndale Room with huge windows overlooking Upper Street. A place to work, a place to play, a place to dine, drink and converse. But this time we’ll be open to everyone – an open clubhouse, if you like. And this time we’re taking things back to the origins of the building and re-opening the ground floor as a pub. Somewhere to grab a pint and a toastie (yes okay, one with chilli jam), a mighty glass of Malbec and a Haggis scotch egg, or just a 181 – we had to keep those, of course. Indie tunes overhead or Liam on the piano. Dogs sleeping by your feet or begging at the treat jar.  In a few weeks we’ll be launching dining as well, but one step at a time. And in honour of the pub that has been on the site for more than 300 years, we will be bringing back the original name The Hare and Hounds.”

 

Scoffs hires Louise Goodwin as people and culture director: Scoffs Group, the largest Costa Coffee franchisee in the UK with circa 115 stores, has hired Louise Goodwin, formerly of Immersive Gamebox and Wingstop UK, as its new people and culture director. Goodwin joins Scoffs after two years as director of people operations at Immersive Gamebox. Previous to that, she spent eight months as head of people at Wingstop UK. She also spent four years at Costa Coffee, including time as its senior HR business partner. She joins Scoffs after the departure of Amanda Smyth, who left the business autumn and recently joined ETM Group as its new people director. Last month, Scoffs acquired the Costa Coffee stores located on the Channel Islands from Sandpiper CI. The company said the strategic move was part of its ongoing commitment to “enhance its footprint and deliver exceptional coffee experiences to the customers in Jersey and Guernsey”. The acquisition was the latest undertaken by Scoffs on the back of acquiring 20 equity owned stores in 2022 within Cornwall and 59 stores in 2018 across central southern England from another Costa Coffee franchise partner. Last year, the business took out a £4m loan to fund its growth plans and said it was actively seeking acquisitions. The business opened its first franchise site with healthy fast food brand Itsu, in Exeter, last year.

 

Mission Mars eyes south west launch for Rudy’s: Mission Mars, the Business Growth Fund-backed operator of Albert’s Schloss and Rudy’s Pizza Napoletana, is lining up a debut site in the south west, for the latter concept. Propel understands that Mission Mars plans to open on the former Royal Bank of Scotland site in Bristol’s Baldwin Street. The 30-strong Rudy’s most recently opened sites in Prestwich and Newcastle and has further openings in the pipeline – in Leamington Spa, Cambridge, West Bridgford and Brighton. Rudy’s will open on the former La Bodega site in Leamington Spa; in the former TSB bank between the entrances to Lion Yard and Grand Arcade, in Cambridge; on the former Black Pearl site in Bridgford Road, West Bridgford; and on the ex-Chilli Pickle site in Brighton’s Jubilee Street. Last month, Roy Ellis, chief executive of Mission Mars, told Propel the increased costs from the Budget had not “changed the shape of our pipeline yet” for its pizza brand. 

 

Pret franchisee Exultant Group acquires a further package of sites: Exultant Group has acquired seven further Pret A Manger sites, the majority of which are based in London. Mizan Syed, founder and chief executive of Exultant Group, said: “After successfully acquiring the north west London territory last year, my team has been busy acquiring the six existing sites. If you’re passing, please pop in and say hello to the Pret team at Ealing, Uxbridge, Wembley Designer Outlet, Harrow, Watford and Brent Cross shopping centre. We have also acquired the Pret in York’s Parliament Street. Huge well done to my senior team for smooth transfers and thanks to the Pret team for its support. We are looking to expand in north west London and in York.” At the end of last year, Exultant Group opened a Pret site in Sheffield. The 1,200 square-foot unit fronts Cambridge Street and is located on the ground floor of the Isaacs Building – a new office building that forms part of the Heart of the City scheme. Prior to the new deal, the Exultant Group operated circa ten Pret sites and is also a franchisee for Pizza Hut Delivery and Anytime Fitness.

 

Disco Bowl acquires two MFA Bowl sites: Disco Bowl, the family entertainment operator led by Pete Terry and Nigel Blair, has acquired the lease of two bowling centres from MFA Group for an undisclosed sum. The deal for the centres in Burney and Hereford takes Disco Bowl’s portfolio to 12 sites. Blair said: “These centres are strategically located and align perfectly with our expansion goals at Disco Bowl. We have long admired these venues, which are leaders in their local markets. This deal benefits both parties – MFA can concentrate expanding its Triple Two Coffee business while we look to significantly invest, refurbish and enhance these sites.” In the near term, the locations will continue operating under the MFA brand, but Disco Bowl plans to rebrand them. Blair added: “While it’s too early to outline specific renovation plans, we’ve had tremendous success with our Scrapyard Golf and Karaoke Box concepts. These centres can expect DJ-led events and an upgraded light and sound system, reflecting our signature style across our existing locations.” MFA will remain as the landlord of both sites. Disco Bowl is privately owned by Blair and Terry. The company, which was formed in 2019, operates the largest bowling alley in the UK, in Nottingham, with 48 lanes, as well as locations in Nuneaton, Chatham, Worcester, Lewisham, Newport, Warrington, Swansea, Cardiff and Banbury. The company said further acquisitions “are in the pipeline”. The deal leaves MFA Group with three bowling centres along with Triple Two, which it acquired out of administration last year, and now has four sites.

 

Freehold investment of iconic Britpop pub placed on the market: The freehold investment of the Good Mixer in London’s Camden Town, which gained notoriety in the 1990s, has been placed on the market with a guide price of between £3.25m-£3.5m, Propel has learned. The entire property is let on a free-of-tie, fully repairing and insuring lease for a term of 20 years from 6 January 2020. The passing rent is £210,000 per annum. The well-known live music venue is being marketed by AG&G. Thie pub gained notoriety in the 1990s, when it hosted Oasis, Blur and Jarvis Cocker of Pulp, along with Amy Winehouse and other well-known performers, which it continues to build on today.

 

Investment in farm shops and ‘proper food’ offer boosts Westmorland’s profit: Investing in farm shops and a “proper food” offer boosted motorway services operator Westmorland’s profit in the year to 30 June 2024, while the airing of a documentary series aided sales growth at its Gloucester site. The business operates three motorway service areas, three truck-stops and filings stations, a hotel, a visitor centre and a farm, and is also planning to build a new motorway service area in Cheshire. Turnover dropped from £142,035,000 to £139, 219,000 due to lower fuel prices, which was offset by increased trading in its non-fuel business. Pre-tax profit rose from £5,057,000 to £6,504,000 due to “continued investment in farm shops” and “the unique ‘proper food’ offer, which sets Westmorland apart in its industry”. Director Sarah Dunning said: “During the year, we continued to invest in the business, developing our distinctively different motorway service offer, which champions ‘proper food’. We introduced gelato and coffee counters at all of our motorway service areas. We completed the successful expansion and refurbishment of the Cairn Lodge farm shop. The airing of our third documentary ‘A Cotswold Farmshop’ in September 2023 stimulated sales growth for our Gloucester business. The Rheged Centre had its best year and footfall was up by 60,000. The coming financial year will hopefully see the commencement of the refurbishment of Tebay southbound, with outline plans approved internally and submitted in a pre-planning application. We have also begun the Westmoreland kitchen development project, which will transform our catering operations. We submitted our planning application for a fourth motorway service area, Tatton Services, which was approved by Cheshire East Council in October 2023 but was called in for government determination. While this was disappointing news, we remain steadfastly committed to the project and will continue to make the case to the secretary of state.” The group has in place two term loan facilities totalling £20.2m (2023: £21.6m), with £1.4m of bank borrowing repaid in the year, while a revolving credit facility of £10m to support its growth plans remains undrawn. The group also repaid £2m in other loans (2023: £4m) as net debt fell to £9.9m from £13.8m. No dividends were paid (2023: nil). The group also received farm subsidies of £104,000 (2023: £100,000), a business interruption insurance claim of £33,000 (2023: £6,000), training grant funding of £56,000 (2023: £55,000) and a profit on disposal of assets of £77,000 (2023: nil).

 

Continuum Group promotes Andrew Pawson to CEO on permanent basis: The Continuum Group – which operates eight UK attractions through partnerships, management contracts and an owned portfolio – has promoted Andrew Pawson to chief executive on a permanent basis. Pawson, who joined the business 20 years ago as group financial controller and has spent the last 15 years as group finance director, was appointed acting chief executive in November 2024 following the departure of Juliana Delaney. Pawson said: “It’s an honour to lead Continuum Attractions into its next chapter. We have ambitious expansion plans and will be investing in innovative technologies to strengthening our position as the leader in story-driven experiences.” Chair Sue Garland-Worthington added: “Andrew’s leadership has already had a significant impact. His deep industry expertise and commercial acumen will be invaluable as we continue to invest in a data-driven approach to guest engagement, while enhancing our renowned human-led storytelling.” Founded in 1984, Continuum Attractions operates attractions including ITV’s Coronation Street Experience, the Emmerdale Village Tour, The Loch Ness Centre, The Real Mary King’s Close in Edinburgh, York’s Chocolate Story, Oxford Castle & Prison, Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth and GreenWood Family Park in North Wales. Last month, Propel reported that Continuum Group’s turnover grew from £16,313,002 to £18,911,934 in the year to 31 January 2024, while pre-tax profit dropped from £1,489,095 to £1,393,071. The year saw the first six months of operation of the Loch Ness Centre, which opened in the summer of 2023, and was also a first year of operating without its I’m a Celebrity Jungle Challenge attraction in Salford Quays, which closed in November 2022.

 

Lunar co-owner set to open Suffolk restaurant and bar for fourth site: Chef Oliver Marlowe, co-owner of London pub company Lunar, is set to open a restaurant and bar in Suffolk for his fourth site. Marlowe, who co-founded the three-strong Lunar with Hubert Beatson-Hird in 2019, is preparing to open Marlowes Restaurant and Bar at the former Riverside restaurant in Woodbridge. Opening on Friday (21 March) following a significant refurbishment, it will blend European influences with seasonal produce available locally, from fresh caught fish to meat, vegetables and artisan cheese. As well as the à la carte menu, there is a set lunch menu and pre-theatre menu, offering three courses for £25, reports the East Anglian Daily Times. The opening will be like coming full circle for Marlowe, who before founding Lunar, worked at The Spice Bar and The Captain’s Table in Woodbridge, as well as at the former Riverside restaurant. He also honed his craft in Michelin-starred restaurants including The Glasshouse and Chez Bruce. Lunar operates The Hunter’s Moon in South Kensington, Ganymede in Belgravia and the Apollo Arms in Clapham Old Town.

 

Liverpool Italian coffee shop concept to open fourth site this weekend: Liverpool Italian coffee shop concept Gran Caffè will open its fourth site in the city on Sunday (23 March). Owned by Italian brothers Paolo and Donato Cillo, the launch marks the group’s third site in under 18 months, with Gran Caffè Lark Lane opening in June 2024 and Gran Caffè Duke Street opening in December 2023. The first Gran Caffè opened in Williamson Square, as part of the Italian Quarter, more than ten years ago. The new venue in Jesse Hartley Way, Park Central, will serve its signature breakfast pastries that are crafted and baked fresh each day, as well as a selection of brunch dishes. The menu will also include Italian small and large plates for lunch, aperitivo and dinner. Paolo Cillo said: “The last 12 months have been transformational for Gran Caffè. After having our flagship site in Williamson Square for more than a decade, it was the right time for us to expand into other areas of the city centre and beyond in south Liverpool, and we can’t wait to introduce Gran Caffè to Park Central.”

 

Orka Concepts confirms Ocasa restaurant launch and details: Orka Koncepts, the new vehicle launched earlier this year, has confirmed it will add a new Mexican restaurant and bar to its growing Manchester estate, called Ocasa. Propel revealed earlier this month that Ocasa, a new 150-capacity venue with a fully retractable roof terrace, would open in the city’s Spinningfields next month. Opening during the Easter bank holiday weekend in The Avenue, across from the company’s existing Dear Sailor site, Ocasa takes “inspiration from the shores of Tulum and the bustling street food scene of Mexico City where bold flavours, expertly crafted cocktails, and energetic music and entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience”. The kitchen will be overseen by executive chef Lucie Sainerova, formerly of Novikov International. Sainerova said: “We’re taking familiar flavours and elevating them in ways that surprise and excite. From our dragon salt wagyu tacos to the lobster thermidor nachos, every dish tells a story. This is Mexican food like you’ve never seen before.” In January, Orka Koncepts acquired the Manchester-based Australasia and Grand Pacific concepts from Living Ventures. The two sites were taken on by Orka Koncepts, which also operates the Hessian events catering business in the city. Orka Koncepts said that new investment in the concepts will “drive strategic growth, innovation and expansion”. 

 

Pizza and natural wine shop concept site in London’s Soho: Ria’s, the all-day Detroit-style pizza and natural wine concept, is planning to open its second site in London, in Soho. The concept, which is the brainchild of technology professionals turned restaurateurs, husband-and-wife team Ria and Dave Morgan-Ratcliffe, plans to open a site at 29-31 Foubert’s Place. Ria’s was founded in 2023, opening its first site in All Saints Road, Notting Hill. The concept focuses on deep pan-style Detroit pizza pies made with wild-farmed flour, which can be bought whole or by the slice. The Detroit style of pizza is known for its rectangular shape, thick yet airy crust and crispy, cheesy edges. The business said: “We wanted to offer something that stood out. Detroit-style pizza is hearty and satisfying, but it also allows for a lot of creativity with toppings. Plus, the crispy edges are just irresistible.”

 

Michelin-starred chef Jordan Bailey launches smash burger concept: Michelin-starred chef Jordan Bailey has launched a new smashed burger concept called Heard. After a year of perfecting his recipes and touring some of the biggest UK events in the Heard food truck, Bailey has brought his concept to a new pop-up restaurant in London’s Borough, where his smash burgers and signature beef salt fries are paired with low-intervention wine and craft beer. Taking over the former Audrey’s site next to Flat Iron Square, the 40-cover restaurant serves double patty smash burgers, made with aged British beef topped with English cheese and home-made pickles, served in a signature butter-toasted, roast potato bun. Heard will expand beyond its Borough location, with a new flagship restaurant set to open off Carnaby Street this spring. Bailey said: “We’re proud to work with some of the UK’s best producers who champion ethical farming practices, and a fully transparent supply chain – from farm to table. Our mission for Heard is simple: to create a ridiculously tasty burger, crafted with Michelin-level attention to detail and top-quality ingredients.” Starting his career at the Michelin-starred Elephant Restaurant in Devon, Bailey honed his skills further at the two-Michelin star Restaurant Sat Bains in Nottingham. Then he worked his way up to head chef at Oslo’s Maaemo restaurant, where his team was awarded a third Michelin star, before he moved to Ireland and opened Aimsir, together with his sommelier wife, Majken Bech-Bailey.

 

DJ Calvin Harris buys home town pub: DJ Calvin Harris and his best friend Mark Irving have acquired their home town pub, the Coach & Horses inn in Dumfries, Scotland, with the latter taking over as landlord. A source told The Sun: “Calvin and Mark have gone into business together and created a company called To The Nines. They’ve now taken over the Coach & Horses and Mark is in place as the landlord. It’s a gorgeous pub with a great atmosphere. It’s a great grassroots music venue too, which is something they’re both really proud of. Calvin used to drink there before he got famous and there is a signed poster for his first album on the wall. It’s a hard time for pubs but the Coach & Horses Inn is thriving.” The old landlord, John Owens, previously spoke of how Harris – whose real name is Adam Wiles – would still go to the pub when he visited his family. He said: “Calvin, or Adam, is a pleasant chap, always has been. We’re all proud of him. When he’s home, he’ll pop in if he gets the chance.”

 

Team behind The Crystal Maze Live and Chaos Karts opens Pac-Man experience in Manchester: The team behind The Crystal Maze Live challenge attraction and Chaos Karts immersive go-karting has brought a Pac-Man experience to Manchester. Little Lion Entertainment, which is also behind Tomb Raider: The Live Experience, has partnered with Bandai Namco Entertainment for Pac-Man Live Experience, which has launched at its Arcade Arena venue in the city. The experience has taken over the space from Chaos Karts, which it launched in the venue in September 2023 following the augmented reality concept’s debut in London the previous year. Pac-Man Live Experience is a live video-game attraction that sees guests play a real-life version of Pac-Man. The venue has been transformed into immersive, interactive mazes, where players become “Pac-People” and navigate through the levels to collect power pellets and fruit, avoid ghosts and win points to take the title. In December, Little Lion Entertainment managing director Neil Dolan told Propel the group was looking to roll out more Arcade Arenas, where, as in Manchester, the games are interchangeable.

 

Tom Brown reveals opening date of new restaurant in London’s Knightsbridge: Chef Tom Brown has revealed the opening date of his new restaurant in London’s Knightsbridge. Brown announced in January he would launch The Capital within The Capital Hotel in Basil Street, part of the Warwick Hotels and Resorts Group. The restaurant will open on Thursday, 10 April. The menu at the new 28-cover The Capital “promises bold, fearless dishes showcasing exceptional quality and innovative techniques” with a strong focus on seafood. Brown was previously head chef at the same hotel’s celebrated Outlaw’s restaurant, operated by two-Michelin starred Nathan Outlaw, who he also worked for at the St Enodoc Hotel in Rock. After leaving Outlaw’s in 2018, Brown opened his own restaurant, Cornerstone in Hackney, where he was awarded a Michelin star. Cornerstone closed in June 2024, while in November 2023, Brown launched Pearly Queen, an oyster bar and seafood restaurant in Shoreditch. Brown said: “Returning to The Capital feels like coming home. This restaurant is all about pushing boundaries while staying true to what I love – daring flavours, incredible produce, and a real focus on sustainable seafood. Every dish is about showcasing the best ingredients while being mindful of how we use them.” Founded in 1980 by Richard Chiu, Warwick Hotels and Resorts has a portfolio of more than 40 hotels on five continents.

 

Chilean concept Mareida confirms June launch for first permanent site: Chilean concept Mareida, which hosted a five-day residency in London last year, has confirmed its first permanent site, in Fitzrovia, will open in June. Mareida, which is the brainchild of Prenay Agarwal and Chilean culinary duo, chef Carolina Bazán and her sommelier partner Rosario Onetto, ran the pop-up at Carousel in Fitzrovia in September last year. They will Mareida, which “celebrates the bold, diverse flavours of Chile and its influences”, at 160 Great Portland Street. The kitchen will be led by head chef Trinidad Vial Della Maggiora, alongside Bazán, with the menu “showcasing dishes from the coast to the mountains, each with a modern bold twist”. The wine list will reflect the diversity of Chile’s wine regions, “from the sun-drenched vineyards of Atacama in the north to the lush landscapes of the south”. Prenay said: “Travel and food are inextricably linked, and I’ve been lucky enough to live in many countries, but none of which have stood out to me as much as Chile. After meeting my partner, who is Chilean, I spent over a year in the country and completely immersed myself in its food scene. I was taken aback by the abundant flavours and dishes of the underexplored cuisine. I want to share my love of the country and show London everything that it has to offer.”