A planning application has been submitted that will act as the blueprint for rolling out a £500,000 Tees Valley establishment as a restaurant brand across the country.
It is hoped work on the striking extension to Oven in Middlesbrough will start in February.
Oven, owned by Tarek Thoma, who famously once cooked for President George Bush and Tony Blair, will open at Central Point in Linthorpe Road in October.
An application, to build a glass-fronted extension with a fascia board planted with greenery and create a covered outside dining space, has been submitted to Middlesbrough Council.
Tarek, has worked at Michelin-starred restaurants including the L’Escargot in London and Chapter One in Kent, said: “The design of the restaurant will act as a template for when we roll out the Oven brand into other locations.
“Striking design will feature both inside and out. The exterior will have floor to ceiling windows, a mini vertical garden, and outdoor dining space. Inside there will be two artworks by Damien Hirst. We also will be showcasing works by successful and up and coming artists.”
Oven will offer Michelin star-style food at affordable prices with its chefs having been trained by professional cooks, who hold a Michelin star rating.
Central Point has been developed by regeneration entrepreneur Geoff Hogg, owner of Linthorpe Developments, who is so impressed with Tarek’s concept for Oven that he has invested in the business.
Geoff said: “This planning application will further establish a quality, but affordable, restaurant in a prime position at the beating heart of the retail and social scene that is emerging in this part of Middlesbrough.”
The extension has been designed by Darlington-based Niven Architects. The company’s owner Simon Crowe said: “Our brief was to bring something fresh and dynamic to an up-and-coming area in Middlesbrough’s social scene that also has the potential of being rolled out as a brand elsewhere in the country.
“The combination of the architectural design and the culinary offering should make Oven a destination for, not only the nearby businesses, but for the broader local community.”
The restaurant will have more than 50 free secure car parking spaces with valet parking available at the weekend.
Geoff Hogg has more than 20 years’ experience in the property sector and during this time, he has amassed a strong mixed portfolio of retail, office and residential schemes, totalling an investment of £15million, across the North East.
The restaurant will be open for business as usual while the premises are extended.