Arc Inspirations, the leading and fast-growing bar operator of a clutch of leading brands including Manahatta, Banyan Bar & Kitchen and The Box, is investing £500k to convert The Arc, Headingly into its popular Manahatta brand.
The Arc, which was the company’s first site to open 18 years ago, will shut down on 18 July, following the World Cup, to undergo a significant three week renovation that will transform the student bar into a slick New York-style bar.
The move, which comes after the company announced it will open two new sites in Manchester this Autumn, further demonstrates its commitment to investing in and growing its portfolio of bars, each of which provide outstanding and individual experiences for local communities.
When open, the bar will echo the stylish, contemporary look of its two immensely popular sister sites in Leeds, with the spacious 8000 sq ft venue. The interior fit out offers a range of seating & eclectic finishes, providing a cool urban lifestyle embracing the New York vibe.
As with all Manahatta sites, the bar will feature an all-day brunch menu, lunch and evening dinner menu, accompanied by a premium cocktail offering. The cocktail selection has been curated by Arc Inspiration’s bar development manager, Mark Austin, and the award-winning team from the American bar in the Savoy hotel.
Arc Inspirations CEO, Martin Wolstencroft, said, “The Arc was our first bar when it opened almost 18 years ago, so it holds a special place in our hearts. But, all good things must come to an end, and after analysing the changing social demographic make up of the immediate area, and the wants and needs of the community, it was clearly the right time to bring Manahatta to the neighbourhood.
“We’re dedicated to delivering exceptional and unique customer experiences at each of our sites, which involves an intimate understanding of the surrounding area. We know this area inside out and are confident this site will trade well in this format.
'While we’re committed to growing our estate in an organic and sustainable fashion, this move shows that we remain pragmatic to investing in our existing estate when we see fit and are not precious about changing formats when necessary.”