Revamp unearths history of city bar

May 9 2008 by Gil Lightfoot, Chester Chronicle

Revamp unearths history of city bar

THE HISTORIC past of a city centre restaurant was glimpsed during its recent refurbishment.

The building of a Mediterranean-style courtyard at Got Wine! in Commonhall Street, had to be put on hold while archeologists moved onto the site. During a five-month long dig they unearthed pieces of Roman tiling and artefacts, as well as other items of historical interest which have now all been catalogued.

The restaurant, which is also known to have a crypt, although it is not accessible, is very much in touch with its historical past, and the recent refurbishment has been carried out to keep as many of the building’s original features as possible.

Diners are reminded of the building’s original use as a cotton mill by the pulley which is the focal point of the restaurant on the upper floor.

On the ground floor the brasserie and bar have undergone a complete restructure, adding another 22 places for diners.

But it is the new courtyard, created from a disused yard, which is the centrepiece of the refurbishment.

With room for 60 diners, the stylish courtyard with its wooden tables and chairs and cream sun shades, has added a new dimension to the restaurant and bar which opened in 2004.

General manager Simon McLoughlin, says the new space, which has its own outdoor bar, will be multi-functional offering barbecues every Sunday throughout the summer, and even catering for festive parties in heated marquees during the winter.

“It’s ideal for private parties, corporate functions and is actually a new establishment in its own right. It will be ideal for the race crowds,” said Simon.

“We have changed everything from the bar to the cellar during the refurbishment. This is a family-run business and it has been a very hands-on project for us all. The standard of what we have achieved complements the quality of the food we serve and the service we offer whether people are coming here just for a drink or to dine.

“The project took longer than we first anticipated because of the dig but in an historic city like Chester you have to expect that. We have created a great new space which we are really proud of.”