Eight-restaurant bistro chain moves into offering rooms

Le Bistrot Pierre, a chain which has eight restaurants in its portfolio, is about to open its latest venture in Ilkley, West Yorkshire.

As well as a 90-cover restaurant, the development will include an ale house with 11 guest bedrooms.

The bistro will be based inside The Crescent Hotel in Brook Street, Ilkley, which dates from the mid 19th century.

The listed building, which accommodated wealthy and famous guests during Ilkley’s heyday as a spa town, still retains some of its original features, such as a grand staircase and decorative mouldings.

Le Bistrot Pierre, which is run by directors Robert Beacham and John Whitehead, started as a Pierre Victoire franchise in Nottingham.

It was established as an independent business trading under the Le Bistrot Pierre name after the Pierre Victoire franchisor went into administration.

Today the portfolio is made up of eight restaurants across the Midlands and the North of England.

NatWest has provided funding to support the purchase and development of the Ilkley site.

NatWest is also extending funds to support a £300,000 refurbishment programme at the company’s existing bistros in Leicester and Sheffield.

Mr Beacham said: “This is a very exciting year for us. Ilkley is a big investment for us, and will see us develop our first ale house, alongside a move into providing guest accommodation.

“This is based on careful research of the area and the continued tourist appeal of this spa town.

“We have grown our portfolio of bistros steadily over the last 17 years, and feel we have established a strong brand and a strong reputation.

“The refurbishment of both our Leicester and Sheffield sites, as well as the establishment of Ilkley demonstrates that we are committed to growing the business further.”

Nick Pigott, relationship director in commercial banking at NatWest said: “Richard and John have demonstrated great entrepreneurial spirit over the years and remain committed to expanding the business.

“Ilkley is a good example of how they are looking to tweak their offering but remain true to the values of the business.”