The Pan Asian restaurant and cocktail venue is planning an extension next door
A popular restaurant is set to more than double in size, less than a year after opening in on Newcastle’s Grey Street.
The Muddler was opened last December as the latest leisure offering from Danieli Holdings, the group which owns and operates Newcastle Stack, Yolo Ponteland and Yolo Townhouse alongside a security business and care division.
Around 20 new jobs were created when it took over the former sushi restaurant Osaka in Grey Street, enlisting Collective Design interior specialists to create a theatrical Asian setting for its Pan Asian menu and cocktails.
Danieli had originally applied for a bar and restaurant licence for the property but was turned down by Newcastle City Council after police raised concerns. Danieli later eased concerns by saying alcohol would only be served to those taking table meals.
However, the eatery only has room for 45 diners and Danieli CEO Neill Winch said the venue often has to turn people away as they are already booked up or full.
Now the venue is aiming to expand significantly into the neighbouring empty unit, a former hairdressers at 71-73 Grey Street.
Mr Winch said: “Since opening the Muddler in December 2018 the business has gone from strength to strength with our customers enjoying the amazing Pan Asian food and sushi, but the size of the current trading area means that we have to turn away a lot of potential bookings during peak service time.
“The introduction of the extension to the Muddler will ensure that we can continue to welcome our current customers and new ones especially during the peak times and also accommodate much larger bookings.”
The firm, through The Muddler Ltd and with the assistance of law firm Sintons, is now pursuing an extended premises licence covering the enlarged site.
Meanwhile, the group has also submitted plans to Sunderland City Council which would see a similar scheme to Newcastle Stack draw in crowds at Seaburn.
The leisure operator has been working closely with the team at Sunderland City Council to advance its plans for the site, as one of a number of operators the council has attracted to the area.
Bradley Hall acquired the premises on behalf of Danieli Holdings.
Neil Hart, group managing director, said: “We were delighted to once again work with clients Danieli Holdings, this time in its expansion of The Muddler. “The opportunity to take the neighbouring premises was too good to miss for the firm. "Its outstanding offering, including its location, interiors, service and food has cemented The Muddler as one of the city’s best.
“Its expansion is also testament to the buoyant hospitality sector in Newcastle as the city centre continues to attract people from near and far.
“We look forward to continue working with Danieli on future projects including Stack Sunderland.”
Original story by The Chronicle https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink-news/newcastle-city-centre-restaurant-muddler-16600223
