A Cleethorpes bar is banking on cocktails as it targets a bigger shot of the evening economy.
Five years on from launching in Sea View Street’s former HSBC, The Counting House is evolving. Currently closed for a significant overhaul under the Oak Ridge management who launched it, the venue will re-open on Halloween weekend with a late night bar and club vibe, maximising its 2am licence.
An extended dancefloor, more intimate feel and more functional bar are some of the key changes, with food being shown the door, and replaced with more exotic drink-focused ingredients and speciality spirits.
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Tom Lidgard, the third generation in the hospitality-focused family behind Brackenborough Lakes Resort near Louth and The Ashbourne Hotel at North Killingholme, said: “When we opened five years ago we saw it as a speakeasy bar and restaurant, a 50/50 split between food and drink, because that’s what we knew. From the launch night onwards we have had people up and dancing.
“We are diversifying, doing something a little different, and it is an exciting change. We’re moving with the times, led by our customers.
“Cocktails have always been the best sellers for us ever since we opened, and we’re going to be delivering high quality theatrical cocktails, going bigger and better.”
Early next year will see a first floor bar emerge where the kitchen has operated from, with potential for further private events, complementing the downstairs space, where outdoor seating is to be added at the rear.
The bank’s former vault remains, switching from a VIP room to ‘Insta’ photo booth, complete with props - while a stage will also emerge as part of the refurbishment.
Opening times will push back to reflect the switch, with existing staff retained and more bartenders to be sought, with the group’s other venues to lay on food for events when required.
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