A Darlington couple have breathed new life into a dilapidated and vacant property with a significant investment to create a niche cocktail bar and coffee house in the town, creating three jobs.
Debbi and Dave Moore have invested £30,000 to establish Manhattans Coffee House & Bar, on Bondgate, which was formerly a charity shop that was left empty for nine years.
The building has undergone a complete refurbishment, including the creation of a separate, dedicated sports room which shows all major sporting events on a 12ft screen. A downstairs bar area has also been created with seating areas and a relaxed and welcoming ambience.
As a result of the launch, three bar staff roles have been created.
Debbi, who is also involved in the design and craft industry, designed the interior of Manhattans on a New York theme, to create a cocktail bar, sports venue and coffee house, as well as a space for private functions and events.
She said: “Darlington has a successful leisure economy but Manhattans is something a little bit different. During the day it offers a peaceful environment for people to meet for coffee, a light lunch and to socialise or meet business contacts. Later in the week, Manhattans seamlessly evolves into a sophisticated cocktail bar catering for after-work professionals, couples or people meeting with friends in a convivial atmosphere.
“A lot of time, effort and money has gone into the creation of Manhattans and we are looking forward to creating a vibrant venue in the heart of Darlington. I wanted to create a location that I would want to visit, so that’s the way it has been designed”
Based at 94 Bondgate, in Darlington, Manhattans Coffee House & Bar is open six days a week, Monday–Saturday, and serves a variety of cocktails, draught and craft beers, as well as soft and hot drinks and light snacks.
Debbi added: “There are so many vacant properties on high streets these days that look out of place, so it is nice to be able to support the local economy and hopefully create further footfall into Darlington town centre.
“Having been based in the town for many years with Debbi Moore Designs it is fantastic to be in a position to create a new business that will boost the nightlife in the town, as well as provide people with a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere during the day.”
http://www.manhattansbar.co.uk