Living Ventures is planning to expand its Cheshire-based chain of 37 restaurants with 12 new sites this year.
The group has also announced its expansion plans for Manchester venues Artisan and Alchemist Spinningfields.
Work has now commenced on the Artisan Cafe Bar situated on the ground floor of the existing restaurant and bar on The Avenue North, Spinningfields. It will offer both indoor and outdoor seating and open from breakfast until late for small plates and drinks.
Another innovative development for Artisan arrives in autumn with the opening of a much-anticipated cinema room, the first of its kind in Manchester, which will host private screenings and product launches.