Seven independent operators have joined forces to install a 50 metre canopy over Merrion street to create the city’s largest outdoor drinking area.
Manahatta, MOJO, Verve, Mean Eyed Cat, Roxy Ball Room, Yard & Coop, Zaap Thai and Liv Bar – all located on Merrion Street in the heart of the city centre – are taking part in the new venture, which is set to launch on 12th April in line with ‘Step Two’ of the government’s roadmap for lifting England’s current national lockdown.
The inspiration for the idea came from the hugely-successful Merrion Street Festival in the summer of 2020.
The festival saw bar and restaurant operators on the street collaborate for a weekend of live music and great food and drink, and after what has been a long and challenging year for the industry, these venues are eager to reopen once again and welcome back their customers.
With a capacity to seat up to 200 people, the street will be covered entirely by a 50 metre canopy, with each venue offering a selection of their signature dishes, drinks, and unique cocktails.
Laura Morris – Co-Owner of Yard & Coop – said: “Merrion street has some of the area’s best party bars and restaurants, all now with plenty of outside seating and professional covering, making it one of the largest covered party areas in Leeds [and] each venue will be showcasing their best drinks, food and good times.
“This is going to feel like being on holiday in the centre of Leeds – every weekend.”
Martin Wolstencroft from Arc Inspiration added: “[We are] delighted to work with the other bars on Merrion Street to create a unique, fantastic destination for all our customers to come together and celebrate the reopening of the superb hospitality Leeds is famous for”.
“Everyone on Merrion Street is immensely excited to welcome back all our old friends and guests and finally offer some much-needed relief from the house arrest we’ve all had to endure.” Martin Greenhow – Managing Director of MOJOS – added.
“At last, someone else will make you a drink and take care of the cooking”.
The Merrion Street collaboration will launch on 12th April and run up until 17th May, when the hospitality industry will resume normal trade as venues are allowed to open their doors to the public.
From 12th April, operators will trade from Wednesday through to Sunday, and if a success, they plan to make this a regular event and continue the concept during the winter months.
Customers are encouraged to book in advance, but walk-ups will also be welcome.
You can find more information on opening times, menus and bookings via the Merrion Street Festival website here.
