The owners of a new wine bar claim Altrincham is a “completely different town to three or four years ago” as they reflected on a first few weeks in business that had “exceeded expectations”.
They opened Après Wine Bar on Shaw’s Road last month and have been “absolutely thrilled” with footfall over the first few weeks.
And co-owner Anthony says the whole area around the Market – Après is just a few yards from the front door of Market House – is now benefitting from the success of a rejuvenated Altrincham Market and the resurgence of the town generally.
“What’s been nice for the Market Quarter is that it’s now all spilling out from Market House,” he said. “Whether you come up Greenwood Street, Shaw’s Road or Dunham Road, it’s a bustling town again.
“There’s lots of al fresco dining and drinkers outside enjoying the ambience, and it really is very Continental. It’s a completely different town to three or four years ago, and everyone in Altrincham now should be very proud – there’s a very good medium and long-term future ahead.”
Après has quickly established itself as a popular day and night-time venue.
“The feedback has been excellent and I think people really enjoy being in a contemporary but very classic wine bar,” added Edward.
“We’re attracting people who enjoy their wine and enjoy their food. It’s a very social atmosphere, with lots of groups of women and couples on dates in particular.
“It’s always difficult to open a new business in an area that is regenerating because you’re not sure how people are going to take it, but we’ve been absolutely thrilled with the footfall over the first month, which has exceeded expectations. Already we have people coming back again and again for their lunches, so we’re absolutely thrilled to be in this part of town.”
As well as a carefully selected wine list, Après offers a Mediterranean-influenced menu of light dishes and sharing platters, served between 12 to 9pm from Wednesday to Sunday.
Its fortnightly wine tastings – located in the bar’s stone-walled cellar – have also proved popular, and are sold out until September, when it plans to launch fine wine and Champagne tasting nights.
And executive chef Paulo Louro said it was important his menu was carefully paired with the wine list.
“My food is food that people can enjoy together and share with their wine. It is world food but with a huge Mediterranean influence, but we have the passion that other places don’t have.
“This is a wine bar, not a restaurant – this is a place to enjoy and relax. Don’t expect to be served in five minutes with my food – my food takes time because I only send it out when it’s done my way and is perfect. Good wine and beautiful food – Après is a place to relax and not rush.”
Après Wine Bar, 10 Shaw’s Rd, Altrincham WA14 1QU. Open seven days a week from 12pm.
