Hospitality entrepreneurs Chris Joannou and Chris Johnston have officially opened the doors to a number of new spaces at The Edwards bar and restaurant in Parry Street, Newcastle West.
The Edwards has an established reputation for great food and atmosphere, and a new front bar and beer garden will only enhance that. But the duo has added urban chic, now offering a culture shop with vinyl store, coin-op laundrette and motorbike workshop.
The owners were keen to curate an eclectic ambience, both practical and playful, and with something for everyone.
The official opening was on the first Friday in August when the expanded Edwards celebrated with a “Grills and Spills Festival”. Attendees enjoyed a night of live music, mulled wine, whisky tasting, art installations, smoky meat, an open fire, vinyl, fresh laundry, local produce, motorbikes and a golden lucky dip.
The Edwards was founded in 2014 and the owners always had plans to develop the spaces. From a business development perspective it was really just a matter of wait and see.
The decision as to what would fill each space“was left to form organically, says Chris Joannou.
“Throughout time and usage, the functionality of each space became apparent,” he says.
“Much of the soul of The Edwards has come from the people who walk through our doors and help create the diverse community that has evolved since we moved into the West End two years ago.”
Diversity was also a business driver.
“It’s fun to create new spaces and develop new offerings. This is an exercise in trying to keep The Edwards ‘fresh’. We want The Edwards to be synonymous with diversity.”
“The expansion is about more than the top quality food and drinks we serve. Each of the spaces offers something unique in terms of experience.”