As the city shakes off the festive glitter, the local culinary landscape is undergoing a remarkable transformation. From high-end arrivals on Pepper Street to intimate bistros on the historic Rows, Chester continues to solidify its reputation as a premier dining destination in the North West.

 

New Arrivals In The City Centre

The most anticipated update for the new year is the confirmation that The Ivy Collection is progressing with its plans for Pepper Street. Taking over the former All Bar One site, this glamorous addition is set to provide a significant boost to Chester’s fine-dining credentials. With its signature opulent decor and classic British brasserie menu, it will undoubtedly become a cornerstone of the city centre evening scene.

As part of the prestigious Northgate development, Maray has officially opened its doors. Known for its vibrant Middle Eastern-inspired small plates and the legendary “Disco Cauliflower,” the Liverpool-founded group has already seen a surge in bookings. The venue occupies a prime spot in the Coachworks Arcade, offering a fresh, energetic atmosphere that perfectly complements the surrounding leisure district.

Celebrated chef Andrew Sheridan has also made his mark this month with the launch of Noted on Bridge Street. Taking over the intimate space previously occupied by Da Noi, Noted offers a relaxed “trust the chef” experience. Sheridan, who trained in Chester early in his career, focuses on high-quality British produce served with creative, international twists.

 

Upcoming Developments For The Year Ahead

The transformation of Frodsham Street continues with work beginning on Spinners, a new £1 million “social gaming” destination. Scheduled for a spring launch in the former Poundland unit, this venue will blend competitive socialising with a high-quality food offering. Visitors can expect duckpin bowling and electric darts, alongside artisan pizzas and handcrafted cocktails.

Progress is also visible at the Wildes Chester site on Bridge Street. This £5 million boutique hotel project is set to house “X by Harry Guy,” a destination restaurant headed by the renowned Roux Scholar. The development promises to deliver a level of luxury that will attract food enthusiasts nationwide.

Planning applications have been submitted for The Drawing Room on Bridge Street Row East. This proposed 36-seat venue aims to repurpose a former vintage boutique into a modern seated environment that respects the medieval architecture of the Rows. If approved, it will add a unique, elevated dining option to one of Chester’s most iconic walkways.

 

Exceptional Value With January Dining Offers

Diners can enjoy significant savings this month as many venues launch their annual “January Sale” menus. Maray is leading the way with its “Green January” campaign, offering 50% off all vegetarian and vegan dishes from Monday to Thursday. This is an excellent opportunity to sample their innovative plant-based menu at half the usual cost.

In the city centre, Urbano 32 is providing 50% off food bills on selected days, while Veeno on Northgate Street is offering a massive 50% discount throughout the month. For those seeking a classic steakhouse experience, The Restaurant Bar & Grill is rewarding its loyalty members with 25% off the à la carte menu.

Independent favourites are also joining the effort to keep Chester vibrant during the winter. The Coach House is celebrating its 20th anniversary with 20% off drinks. At the same time, local bistros like Sticky Walnut in Hoole continue to offer their highly regarded set lunch menus, which remain among the best-value dining experiences in the region.

 

Changes To The Culinary Scene

While there is much to celebrate, the city says a fond farewell to Atina Kitchen on Foregate Street. After 20 years of service, the family-run eatery closed its doors at the turn of the year. The owner cited the increasing challenges facing independent hospitality businesses but expressed immense pride in two decades of serving the Chester community.

The flagship North Light unit in Northgate has also seen a transition. Following a restructuring by its parent company, the site has been successfully handed over to the Maray team, ensuring that one of the city’s largest dining spaces remains a key attraction for residents and tourists alike.

 

Travel For Your Evening Out

Choosing Chester Taxi Services for your evening out ensures you can enjoy the city’s new wine lists and cocktail menus without the worry of driving or finding parking in the city centre.

Whether you are heading to a celebratory meal at The Ivy or a casual midweek bite at Maray, our fleet of modern taxis provides a safe, door-to-door service. For larger groups exploring the January offers together, our multi-seater vehicles provide a cost-effective, social way to travel.

 

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