Lancaster chefs open new restaurant

Two chefs have come together to open a restaurant in Lancaster's canal quarter, creating 10 jobs.

Alan Hempton and James Cocker, who previously worked as chefs at the Borough, have opened The Quarterhouse Kitchen + Bar on Moor Lane.

Following a yearlong search, the pair purchased the assets of a restaurant that has now ceased operating and obtained the lease of the building.

The chefs named the restaurant The Quarterhouse to reflect its location in the Canal Quarter. The food served is prepared using locally sourced ingredients, and promotes the European concept of small servings for sharing with friends and enjoyed with wine or locally brewed beer.

Alan, who qualified as a chef in Italy, said: “It’s always been a dream to have a restaurant of our own. We were keen to find a suitable location in this busy part of Lancaster and after searching for nearly a year, we were delighted to find a restaurant business for sale right in the heart of Lancaster’s cultural quarter.”

Jack Stephenson, solicitor at Harrison Drury’s Lancaster office, advised them on the acquisition and lease agreement. Adam Parton, partner at MHA Moore and Smalley, provided further support for Alan and James on business and tax planning for their new restaurant business.

Jack said: “Alan and James were very keen to get started and make their vision a reality. When the restaurant business in Moor Lane came up for sale it ticked all the boxes. We worked quickly to secure it, making it possible be open and ready for business for the start of the festive season.”

Adam said: “Lancaster’s city centre has seen a lot of growth recently with the development of Lancaster University’s student accommodation. Coupled with the commercial and residential plans for Canal Quarter, Alan and James have certainly picked a great location for a restaurant business.”

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