Restaurant Associates secures 10-year contract with Bristol City Council

Restaurant Associates, part of Compass Group, has been awarded a 10-year contract to oversee the catering and hospitality operations for Bristol City Council.

This will see Restaurant Associates Venues retain its existing presence at M Shed and Bristol Museum & Art Gallery while expanding into new locations including City Hall, Central Library, Create Centre and a collection of eight park café outlets across the city.

As part of this new partnership, Restaurant Associates Venues will deliver tailored services across the council’s retail and event spaces, catering for a diverse range of occasions, from corporate functions to private celebrations.

Dirk Talsma, managing director of Restaurant Associates Venues, said: “This contract represents an exciting opportunity to bring fresh ideas and enhanced hospitality experiences to the people of Bristol.

“We are passionate about supporting local suppliers, utilising fresh, seasonal produce and creating spaces that reflect the city’s vibrant culture. We look forward to this next chapter and to working closely with Bristol City Council to bring our shared vision to life.”

Former MasterChef: The Professionals winner and National Chef of the Year, Steve Groves, will oversee menu design and supplier procurement, with a commitment to championing local Bristol businesses.

A range of new menus and food offers will be introduced across the council locations, from freshly prepared grab-and-go options to elevated café classics. Each site will continue to uphold the Bristol Eating Better gold standard.

As part of the contract, a significant refurbishment programme is planned for key locations within the portfolio. This will include major upgrades to the M Shed Café and a selection of park cafés across the city. The contract is due to mobilise this summer.

Last year, Restaurant Associates took over west London brasseries Maria G’s operations, with Groves again providing the menu.

Around the same time, the firm acquired workplace and venue caterer Grazing, after adding nutritionist Clare Gray to its cohort of chef partners.