BALLYHACKAMORE'S growing attraction as a hospitality destination has been boosted with the opening of a new restaurant that has created 25 jobs following a £250,000 investment, supported by Danske Bank.
The new eatery has been opened by Richard McCracken, a chef with over 12 years’ experience, working in Scotland, London and Paris.
Although a lot of Richard’s experience has been in Michelin star restaurants, working with Tom Kitchin in Edinburgh and Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles, Cyprus Avenue is a casual dining neighbourhood bistro with a menu that places a firm emphasis on good local produce, while remaining familiar and affordable.
The restaurant seats up to 50 guests and features an outside patio area at the front of the building. Opening from 9am seven days a week, diners will be able to enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner.
“Growing up I always wanted to have my own restaurant and cooking was something I fell in love with while studying in Glasgow. Every summer I would come home and gain first-hand experience with Danny Millar, working my way up from a kitchen porter through the ranks at Balloo House," Mr McCracken said.
“The building in which we have opened had been empty for a while. Given its proximity to the city centre, high footfall and the overall appeal of the area, I knew it was too good an opportunity to pass up.
“There has been a complete refurbishment of the unit with a significant extension. The kitchen has moved upstairs allowing us to utilise the entire ground floor space for customers.
"A number of other businesses in the area have maintained the original architecture of the buildings and this was something we were also keen to preserve.
"The interior is completely bespoke with exposed red brickwork and fittings made from mahogany and leather.
"When I presented my business plan to Danske Bank, they bought into it straight away and were very keen to support me. They’ve been with me every step of the process and on hand for advice any time I’ve needed them. They’ll still be providing support on a day to day basis and it is reassuring that they are so supportive of a start-up business."
Karen Hoey, senior corporate manager at Danske Bank commented:
"At Danske Bank we are keen to support businesses of all sizes. The hospitality sector is a major contributor to the local economy and is going from strength to strength.
"Richard’s refurbishment of the property is in keeping with a number of other businesses in Ballyhackamore, adding to the already diverse offering to consumers in the area."
