Tommy Heaney launches Kickstarter campaign for new Cardiff restaurant

Chef Tommy Heaney has launched a Kickstarter campaign in a bid to raise £40,000 to create his first solo restaurant in Cardiff.

Last month The Caterer revealed Heaney's plan to move into the former Arbennig restaurant and its sister café the Arbennig Emporium.

The Kickstarter, which has raised more than £3,000 since launching last night, will allow Heaney to invest in furniture and fittings, a bar upgrade, kitchen equipment, marketing and branding.

Explaining his vision the chef wrote: "We have the keys to the new building, the team is almost in place and we are coming up with dishes and drinks to wow the punters of Cardiff.

"We're opening a lively cocktail bar and restaurant with a fun and relaxed atmosphere. There won't be any unnecessary fuss when it comes to service but the food will be all about simple flavours, using the finest Welsh produce. Simple but exciting."

He continues: "The restaurant itself will be split into two halves. The main dining room will be an informal, relaxed area with a vibrant cocktail and gin bar flowing nicely into the main dining area. We will comfortably fit 50, with a fuss-free service style and mind-blowing food.

"We will have a smaller ‘deli' area next door which we will use for small plates, private dining and drop-in lunches. The deli will be super informal and give us the chance to try quirky things and experiment without affecting the feel and atmosphere of the main restaurant."

Heaney is offering a series of rewards for investors including vouchers to spend at the new site, tickets to guest chef nights, VIP entry to the restaurant's opening night, masterclasses, the chance to have your initials tattooed on the chef or to have him play with your five-a-side football team.

Heaney, originally from County Antrim, has worked at the 13-bedroom Great House hotel in Laleston, Bridgend, for the past four years, and last year oversaw the relaunch of the hotel's restaurant as Restaurant Tommy Heaney at the Great House.

Sous chef Gareth Denyer will be stepping up to the role of head chef and Heaney will be splitting his time between the new site and the Great House. Heaney's partner, Nikki Curnock, will manage the new restaurant.

To learn more about Heaney's Kickstarter click here.

Tommy Heaney to take over Arbennig Cardiff site>>

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