Birmingham-based bar operator Bitters ‘n Twisted Venues is investing £250,000 in opening a new restaurant and bar in Leicester.
The venue in St Martin’s Square will be the company’s third Bodega Cantina y Bar, featuring South American street food and a line-up of cocktails and beers with a Latin leaning.
Due to open in July, it is set to follow the success of Bodega Cantina y Bar in Birmingham and Worcester. It will be the 10th venue for the business which was founded 10 years ago by Matt Scriven.
Matt said: “It’s hard to believe that we have been going a decade and still proudly independent. We have come a long way since we opened our first Birmingham venue, Island Bar, which is still as popular as ever.
“We’re excited about spreading our Bodega wings to Leicester, which is a city on the up and has a great vibe. Bodega has been such a hit with our customers since we opened our first site in Birmingham five years ago, followed by Worcester in 2014.
“We know the demand is there for authentic, fresh, easy-going South American food in fun and quirky surroundings.”
Bodega Leicester’s interior will focus on iconic and quirky South American imagery including sugar skulls, Mexican wrestlers and football to create a “playful, informal and individual” environment. Pictured above is an artist’s impression of the Leicester site.
The food ranges from favourites such as burritos, nachos and tacos to a range of Peruvian- and Ecuadorian-inspired main dish classics. The venture will create 15 new jobs in Leicester.
Matt added: “People come to us because they don’t want the uniformity and charmless atmosphere of a chain. They want something authentic and niche where they can step into the vibrancy, colour and carnival atmosphere associated with South America.
“We are proud to have created a group of venues that are fuelling the spirit of quality independents in the Midlands.”
Other Bitters ‘n Twisted Venues in Birmingham include Buffalo & Rye which opened last October, Marmalade, The New Inn, The Victoria, Island Bar, The Jekyll & Hyde and Rose Villa Tavern. The company employs over 170 people.
