25/02/2020
Restaurant on stilts to open in Manchester
A restaurant on stilts, Higher Ground, is opening in Manchester's new garden neighbourhood, Kampus. The Caterer reports that Higher Ground will open for an initial four month residency, with intentions to move to a permanent site. The concept, which will use local ingredients and beer from a Manchester brewery, will occupy for the former Bungalow site, opposite Canal Street.
Fulham Town Hall to be converted to hotel
The Hometel brand, room2, has agreed a 30-year lease for Fulham Town Hall in London, opening its first premium concept, reports Boutique Hotelier. The Grade-II listed London building will comprise 90 rooms as well as event and co-working space as well as F&B offerings. Construction is scheduled to begin in May, whilst the planned opening date is early 2022. An 89-room Hometel in Chiswick is scheduled for Q2 2021, which will be followed by a 59-key Manchester offering.
Majority share in Radio Alice acquired by Berberè
Italian company Berberè has acquired a majority stake in Radio Alice, which was set up in a joint venture with Azzuri Group. Azzuri Group invested in the concept in 2016 and the concept now has sites in Hoxton, Clapham and Canary Wharf, reports Big Hospitality. Radio Alice is the brainchild of brothers Matteo and Salvatore Aloe, who run 12 pizzerias in Italy under the Berberè brand.
Adventure Bar to open first site outside of London
Adventure Bar is set to open its first regional site in Birmingham. Located in the basement of Ladbrokes on Stephenson Road, Adventure Bar will open its third Tonight Josephine venue. Furthermore, Propel reports that Adventure Bar has been assessing its funding options for further expansion, with short-term plans to focus on London.
Wildes Hotel Group plan for Chester hotel
Wildes Hotel Group has submitted a planning application for a boutique hotel in Chester's city centre. Boutique Hotelier reports that the group is acquiring a long leasehold on Bridge Street, which is currently vacant offices. Subject to planning permission, the site will be transformed into a new 16-bedroom boutique hotel and spa, set to open in spring 2021.
And Finally...
Sri Lankan street food operator The Coconut Tree is working with Fleurets, seeking sites in Birmingham, Exeter and Reading; adding to their existing estate in Cheltenham, Oxford, Bristol, Cardiff and Bournemouth. Other areas of interest are Brighton, Leeds, Liverpool, London and Manchester. Propel reports that the company is seeking both freehold or leasehold sites, between 1,750 and 4,000 sq ft.