A NEW independent restaurant is opening Hereford with its own rooftop terrace.

The Courtyard arts centre in Edgar Street says the new restaurant and bar is opening in partnership with Chase, the Herefordshire-based distillery famed for its gins and vodkas.

Called The Courtyard Chase Lounge, it will launch with two events on May 20 and 21.

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Theatres and indoor restaurants must remain closed for now due to coronavirus restrictions, but these will ease again in May.

Hereford Times: Hereford's Courtyard centre for the arts before its latest transformation project Hereford's Courtyard centre for the arts before its latest transformation project

James Chase, from the distillery in Preston Wynne, near Hereford, said: “We are so proud to partner with The Courtyard, Herefordshire’s cultural and creative champion.

"Both of our companies roots are firmly based in this glorious county, and we can’t wait to enjoy a Chase cocktail in the newly refurbished lounge.

"From our distillery to their stage, roll on people returning to their seats."

Hereford Times: June Chase, James Chase and Lorna Chase June Chase, James Chase and Lorna Chase

The Courtyard Chase Lounge will be open initially from 5pm on Thursdays through to Saturdays, and will be serving a mixture of small plates and traditional main dishes.

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Guests will be able relax and enjoy a Chase cocktail in the setting of the stylish new bar area or go alfresco on the rooftop terrace before heading into the exclusive restaurant to sample a range of innovative small plates created by head chef Dale Williams, the Courtyard said.

Hereford Times: Chase Distillery in Preston Wynne. Picture: Thomas Alexander Chase Distillery in Preston Wynne. Picture: Thomas Alexander

Mr Williams said: “We can’t wait to get back in the kitchen doing what we love – using local fresh ingredients to produce simple but tasty food, while also supporting our local suppliers.

"In these trying times it is ever so important we support each other. We look forward to welcoming people back in very soon."

The new venture is part of the Courtyard’s Transform The Yard capital expansion project which has also seen a complete renovation of the downstairs café bar, which now boasts an additional glass fronted space and an increased seating capacity.

The Courtyard Café Bar will continue to serve quick, healthy meals and light bites throughout the day, and will reopen on May 20 at 10am.