An Italian restaurant and cocktail bar is reopening in Harrogate after spending £750,000 on a major refurbishment during the third national lockdown.
Lucia Harrogate, based at 3 Ripon Road, will throw open its doors to guests again on Tuesday May 18 with a bright and refreshed look. So we went for a sneak peek.
The big investment, which comes after a difficult year for the hospitality industry, has also created 21 jobs.
Lucia Harrogate’s middle floor, on street level, is bright and airy
It already seems to be paying off. Tables in the restaurant and bar are fully reserved for the next three weeks and if people keep booking, there could be scope to create even more roles.
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Lucia, which has two more restaurants in Beverley and York, has been in Harrogate since 2014.
Its restaurant in the town is set over three floors. It now has a classic Italian, 1920s look, with a modern floral twist.
There is an almost prohibition-era feel to the basement, which is kitted out in dark and rich reds and ocean-inspired decorations.
The middle floor remains as the main restaurant space and bar. It also leads into the conservatory, which has an eye-catching floral display on the ceiling.
While the top floor is where you can find even more seating to grab food and drinks. The main toilets are also on the top floor.
Soothing blues enhance the top floor’s more relaxed atmosphere
Mike Turner, general manager at Lucia Wine Bar and Grill Harrogate, told the Stray Ferret:
“We are looking forward to opening our doors and showcasing this beautiful restaurant. It’s had a good overhaul and we have created extra jobs.
“People cannot wait to head out, so that is great. We are fully booked for the next three weeks and people are already getting in touch about the fourth week.”
Rich red decor gives the basement an almost-prohibition-era feel
Chelsea Talbot, the restaurant’s guest experience manager, also said:
“The money for the refurbishment is Lucia money, it comes from the success and confidence in what we can offer.
“I spoke to a taxi driver about it who thought it was daft to spend so much money, but it’s not. It’s amazing.
“We know that this is what Harrogate wants. We are confident in hospitality. People can dine and drink with us and spend a full evening here.”
A statement floral ceiling dominates the conservatory
The basement’s bar is ready for staff to serve drinks
