Cocktail bar to shake things up in the capital

CARDIFF will get a new cocktail bar when Shrewsbury-based operator The Libertine opens its latest venue in the city.

With locations in Shrewsbury and Aberystwyth, the popular cocktail bar is set to make its Cardiff debut in late August.

The operator is known for its quirky décor and ambient lighting, and cocktail aficionados can look forward to an extensive menu of drinks, with many boasting theatrical twists.

The Libertine will take a lease on 28 High Street in a deal which sees a stepped rental leading up to £68,500 per annum.

Work has now started on a comprehensive refurbishment of the 2,500 sq ft ground floor property in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, which also has additional basement space.

Castle Quarter has become a sought-after postcode for bars and restaurants, and the new venue will be in good company with neighbours such as Indian street food venue Chai Street, Currado, and retro gaming bar Kongs.

Huw Jones, of The Libertine, said: “We have been monitoring the Castle Quarter area for some time and seen the emerging brands and recent openings that are creating the ideal environment for our quality type of operation.”

Phil Morris, partner at EJ Hales who acted on behalf of the vendor, added: “This part of Cardiff is improving rapidly, with a really exciting mix of new tenants, creating a vibrant, independent bar and restaurant culture.

“We have recently let other units in the area and have several other confidential deals that are advancing in the area which will add to this buzz.”