French restaurant group Bistrot Pierre is to open a new restaurant in Altrincham – on the site that sandwich chain EAT had hoped to move into.
We reported in February that Eat was planning to open a new outlet in the corner unit of George Street and Cross Street most recently occupied by fashion brand Utopia.
But it appears that Bistrot Pierre has got there first and is planning to stay in Altrincham “for many years”.
A spokesperson for Eat confirmed to Altrincham Today that “sadly” it had missed out on the unit, but said it was still “very keen” to open in the town.
Bistrot Pierre, founded in Nottingham in 1994 by school friends Robert Beacham and John Whitehead, has 16 bistrots around the country but the current nearest to Altrincham is in Stockton Heath.
It says the new 120-cover Altrincham restaurant will provide “great value authentic French food and drink”.
“Altrincham is fast becoming known as a food destination since the historic indoor food market opened its doors again,” said co-owner Beacham.
“The local economy was negatively affected by the opening of the Trafford Centre but now greater investment into Altrincham has brought about a shift people’s behaviour who are spending more time in the town – it’s the ideal location for us to open our latest bistrot.
“With enough space to seat 120 diners, the bistrot will bring affordable French bistrot dishes, freshly prepared by our chefs daily in a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere.
“Bistrot Pierre plans to stay in the town for many years to come so the building we have secured will undergo a complete fit out and will have its very own local feel, just as all our bistrots do. We’re delighted to be part of Altrincham’s regeneration and the growing food and drink scene.
“There is a big independent scene in the town and, as an independently-owned group, we are passionate about maintaining that environment and experience throughout our bistrots.”
Pierre Bistrot recently secured a £9.8million investment from private equity company Livingbridge to accelerate its growth plans.
Beacham added: “Steaks-frites, boeuf bourguignon and crème brûlée are all very popular on our menus and we’re looking forward to bringing these French favourites, along with many others, to Altrincham. We take regular trips to France to seasonally update our menus, bringing French authentic ingredients and new dishes into our bistrots.
“Each bistrot is slightly different and the group prides itself on creating a unique dining experience for our customers at every location.”
The new opening is subject to planning but Bistrot Pierre has signed a lease on the building, which is owned by Stamford Quarter owner Lunar.
