Business is booming at Bonbar

One of the North East’s most talked about venues has hailed its first month in business as a big success, with its food offering proving particularly popular.

Bonbar, the £1m new destination venue within Newcastle’s historic Assembly Rooms, opened last month, and has already seen thousands of diners and revellers flocking to the Grade II listed building.

The venue which opens at lunchtime and serves food throughout the day, and also becomes a cocktail lounge on an evening has been totally redesigned in a dramatic contrast from its previous traditional look as part of the Assembly Rooms.

The Assembly Rooms remains open, and continues to offer conferences and events. Further investment in the venue is planned for the coming months.

The creation of Bonbar was overseen by the specialist leisure team at Newcastle based Sintons. Partners Christopher Welch, Sarah Smith and Alok Loomba worked with owner Antony Michaelides throughout the duration of the project to oversee all of the commercial, licensing and property work.

Antony Michaelides said: “We are growing day by day. Our food in general, and particularly our Sunday lunches, have been very well received. This is the first time we have ever been open to the general public, as were previously only a function and event venue, and it’s a move we are pleased to have made.

“We are delighted with how many people are coming in to join us for food and drinks at all times of the day.”

Commercial Partner Christopher Welch, who has worked with the Michaelides family for over 20 years, said: “Bonbar is a unique and very welcome addition to Newcastle’s vibrant leisure scene, and is made all the more special by the fact it is situated inside a 238-year old building.

“The transformation of part of the Assembly Rooms into Bonbar is a fantastic achievement for Antony and his team, and positions this historic location to stand the test of time for future generations.”