The team behind popular gin and coffee haunt Coffee Barker and Gin & Juice have revealed plans to expland its business with the launch of a brand new Parisian-inspired bistro. Maison Entrecôte - Chez Barker will occupy the two units where popular cheese shop and delicatessen Madame Fromage once was at the heart of the Castle Arcade.
Located just a few metres down from its sister stores - Gin & Juice and Coffee Barker - it is hoping to embody the romance and charm of Paris. And we can't think of a better location than this historic strip which dates back to 1887.
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Brought to you by husband-and-wife duo Stephen and Charlotte Barker (whose family has been trading in Castle Arcade since 1982) together with their sons Kurtis and Kane, this expansion by Gin & Juice - which has grown to include four shops across the UK, Cardiff, Mumbles, Bristol and Cheltenham since it opened in - is hoping to open by September, providing its licensing application is approved.
Charlotte Barker, founder, explained: "We have always loved Paris. It's an enchanting city with a chic style and unparalleled class that is effortless. However, the rustic little bistros are what captured our hearts. These cosy little restaurants are like stepping back in time, often serving only one dish so they can master it and become a destination for it. They are our inspiration, and we believe Cardiff has a gap for such a cosy, charming little restaurant. It will be the most magical and romantic in the city."
Its menu will offer an all-day dining experience with a hearty focus on the French speciality Steak-Frites (steak and fries), complete with French cocktails, beers and wine, which will be served from a zinc-topped Parisian bar, and of course a selection of desserts and cheese - you simply can't have a French cafe without a selection of fromage.
"I am passionate about what we have here in the Castle Quarter. This district of our capital city is a destination for a discerning clientele," says Gin&Juice's co-founder Stephen. "We stand in the shadow of the Principality Stadium, and a stone's throw from Cardiff Castle, while surrounded by great retailers in this beautiful city."
Kurtis adds: "Cardiff is such a vibrant city - we Welsh know how to have a good time and protecting the strength of independent hospitality is vital. Building upon the premium culture we enjoy at the Castle Quarter and Castle Arcade is essential."
