ESP has had a first look at the relocated Clarkes restaurant and all we can say is WOW!
Fine dining has moved into the city centre with Clarkes taking over, and transforming, what used to be The Grapevine pub just behind St. John’s church.
Very tastefully decorated and hardly recognisable from the dark wood interior it once had, this is a beautiful venue promising the same fantastic food and service.
The team behind it have decided to move the restaurant to a more central location from its previous position on Lincoln Road and its eagerly anticpated opening has seen diners keen to experience Lee Clarke’s fabulous menu whilst appreciating the new dining experience, bar and courtyard.
Owner Prafulla Gorania is delighted with the new opportunity this building and location offers – “We literally had to gut everything and start afresh and we have opted for a comtemporary feel we call ‘urban nature’. The other Clarkes building had quite a traditional look and feel but this is warmer with a lovely atmosphere mixing the old with the new.
“Clarkes has done so well over the last two years that we want to see it flourish, and bigger really is better here. We can now offer private dining, exclusive hire and a bar area for people who would just like to drop in for a drink.”
As well as the lovely downstairs dining area adjoining the bar and lounge area, there is another dining room upstairs boasting great views over Cathedral Square and there will be more rooms opening in future.
It’s a fantastic building, full of character an we love the new design and attention to detail.
Clarkes is now open offering a wider menu and from next week will be introducing a new working lunch of one course and a glass of wine for just £10.
Head chef Lee Clarke told ESP – “It’s the same team here so diners can still expect the same standard of quality food and service. We are planning several special events and intend to open a chef’s room in future.
“Our ambitions are as high as ever – we want a Michelin star!”
It’s been fantastic to see the Cathedral Square area turn into a new dining quarter in the city centre and with the arrival of Carluccios, Nandos, as well as indpendents such as Pizza Roma on Bridge Street the blend of restaurants and cafes, many with al frsesco dining, is better than ever. The addition of Clarkes certainly takes it to a new level and is also looking forward to outdoor seating in the near future.
We can’t wait to try Clarkes and we bet you can’t either so book now on 01733 892681 or 07986 452854.
Photos: Emma Bothamley for ESP Magazine
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