A brand new cafe has opened in Southport town centre – with the owner declaring that Chapel Street is the best part of town to be.
Hugo Lounge has opened on the corner of Chapel Street and Corporation Street, on the ground floor of the former BHS building.
The four-storey site is currently undergoing an extensive transformation, after being bought by new owners in July.
The upper floors are being converted into 30 new aparthotel rooms under the Prestige Stay brand. Other ground floor units will be occupied by a new pub and by shops.
Ali Cakir, owner of Hugo Lounge on Chapel Street in Southport. Photo by Andrew Brown Media
The opening of Hugo Lounge is part of a real renaissance for Chapel Street, which has already seen new businesses including One Below and The Fragrance Shop opening earlier this year.
Just a short walk away, IT specialist Techedia is currently converting the former Taskers Sports building on Corporation Street into its new HQ, creating 75 new jobs; the new look Southport Market food, drink and events venue has opened on King Street; and the new Beales department store has opened on Lord Street. Business is booming.
Visitors to the Hugo Lounge will be able to enjoy dishes including all day breakfasts, sandwiches, toasties, paninis, fish and chips, fajitas, wraps, omelettes, baked potatoes, pie dishes, sausage dishes, salads and kids meals.
Drinks include a selection of teas and coffees, smoothies, and milkshakes.
An ice cream counter is open on the Chapel Street side of the building.
Diners can sit either inside, or on tables outside.
The new business has created eight new full-time jobs with four part-time staff.
Ali Cakir, owner of Hugo Lounge on Chapel Street in Southport. Photo by Andrew Brown Media
Hugo Lounge is owned by Ali Cakir, who has 15 years’ experience in the hospitality industry.
He said: “We have had a really good response since we opened. People really like it here.
“They have been enjoying the way the business has been decorated, the comfy chairs, and the tasty food.
“This is a great spot to open a new restaurant. For me, Chapel Street is the best part of town to be in.
“The whole shopping centre is here, with lots of shoppers walking past, and other businesses such as Caffe Nero and Costa Coffee.
Hugo Lounge on Chapel Street in Southport. Photo by Andrew Brown Media
“I would love to see local people come into Hugo Lounge to try our meals, enjoy a tea or a coffee, and see what we have to offer here.
“The people who have come here already have really liked it.”
Hugo Lounge is open 9am to 6pm Monday to Sunday, seven days a week. It will be open on all bank holidays except Christmas Day.
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