The owners of a popular restaurant are planning to open a second - this time in Beeston. Pistachio Bar & Kitchen, which serves Middle Eastern inspired tapas in relaxed surroundings in Sherwood, is looking to expand.
Owners Orash and Rhiannon Naini opened the restaurant, in Mansfield Road, in April 2021 after delays caused by the pandemic and building issues. Before that they operated as a takeaway during lockdown. Since then it has earnt rave reviews for the big bold flavours of the small plates and the wide range of vegetarian and vegan options.
Dips include pistachio, feta and yoghurt, and spicy red pepper, pomegranate and walnut, and sticky Middle Eastern wings, chicken or cauliflower, are served. Meatballs are both meaty and vegan, served with a variety of sauces such as sour cherry, walnut and pomegranate or garlicky roasted tomato and sumac.
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The selection of Picky Persian Plates features Shah prawns, crispy corn ribs, fried halloumi in a sticky fig and balsamic glaze, spicy chorizo in a port, saffron and pomegranate sauce and duck breast with pancetta, shallots and green beans in a black cherry and port sauce.
The owners have their eye on a vacant property in Beeston - and even if that falls through they are still determined to open in the town when suitable premises become available.
Orash said: "Beeston was always on the cards after we conducted a poll a few years back asking our customers where they would like to see our next Pistachio. Beeston came in second place after Sherwood.
"We're viewing a property this week which would be an ideal location and spot for what we want. We are definitely coming to Beeston regardless of this property - it's just a matter of time.
"We opened our Sherwood branch in the middle of a lockdown due to Covid so this current climate hasn’t fazed us. Admittedly it’s tough but we have started to see more of our customers return recently which is a good sign for the industry.
"Sherwood has a fantastic community, it’s been really nice getting to know more of the locals in the area over past couple of years. There have been times when most of the customers in the restaurant know each other, it really creates a feel good vibe and a buzzing atmosphere."
The Sherwood venue launched The Loft last December, a top floor extension of the restaurant where diners can have a drink before or after their meal. It's also available for private hire.
Pistachio originally started out in Sneinton in 2018, which is now run by Orash's father Babak Sadeghian-Naini, who serves more of a traditional Persian menu.
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