New venue round-up: The Alchemist and Popworld expansions continue
The Alchemist to open second London venue
Following the success of its Bevis Marks venue in Liverpool Street, The Alchemist has announced that its second venue in the capital will open in Covent Garden on 16 November.
The Alchemist managing director Simon Potts revealed: “We are hugely excited to be bringing the brand to Covent Garden; we’re looking forward to engaging with the local theatre, bar and restaurant community and to play a part in the renowned dining and drinking destination.
“The capital, in many ways, represents the country on a world stage, as an international destination visited by millions every year.
“So this opening is a significant one for the Alchemist as we continue our journey as a brand. This venture marks our commitment to London as we expand across the capital.”
Moreover, the bar and restaurant chain has announced that a third London location will open in Old Street next year.
Popworld set for Hartlepool and Chelmsford sites
Pop party club chain Popworld has opened new venues in Chelmsford, Essex; and Hartlepool, Durham; on 9 and 15 November respectively.
The new openings will grow the chain of Stonegate-operated nightclubs to 33 sites since opening its first venue in Southampton four years ago.
Popworld brand manager Jamie Rosenfeld said: “We have had such great success over the past few years and are continuing to grow as a brand, throwing unforgettable parties across the UK.
“With these new sites we can’t wait to show off what we are all about and provide a great party for all!”
BEAR opens third site
East Midlands coffee chain BEAR opened its third site, a café-bar concept in Stone, Staffordshire, on 1 November.
Joining sites in Derby and Uttoxeter in BEAR's portfolio, the new venue will provide customers with an all-day offer comprising speciality coffee, fresh food, cocktails and craft beer in a former branch of Midland/HSBC.
John Turner, director of Turnerbates Design & Architecture, which transformed the site, said: “Since meeting at the Restaurant & Bar Design Show two years ago, we have enjoyed the collaboration with the energetic team at BEAR , developing with them interiors for each location that reflect the quirky, industrial meets natural elements of the BEAR brand and offer.”
BEAR co-founder Craig Bunting added: “We opened our first BEAR in 2016, with the aim of serving great coffee in a warm and welcoming environment, but what really sets us apart is our love for coffee products and connecting with the community around us.”
BEAR's head of food Terran Hamilton commented: “We’re excited to introduce Stone to our take on brunch, house cocktails and our small plates menu – perfect for eating with friends.”
William Bourne reopens in Chessington
High street pub the William Bourne in Chessington, Greater London, reopened on 7 November following a £200,000 revamp.
General manager Martina Dordikovs said: “We are incredibly excited to relaunch our pub to the people of Chessington.
“Not only is the new look amazing but we also have such a great range of gins, rums and whiskies as well as delicious, well-priced food. We look forward to welcoming everyone.”
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