Weekender: Restauranter announces new venture

Restauranter Tony Fulford, who created Chez la Vie restaurant in Harrogate and operated it for almost 20 years, is to relocate the operation into the renowned countryside family pub/restaurant the Nelson Inn.

The former Mitchells & Butlers pub has been purchased from the current owners by a private buyers, who intend to put the business back on the map and return it to its former glory, when it was one of the most successful units in the Joshua Tetley free trade account.

Fulford said: “I have been asked so many times when I was going to reopen Chez la Vie that I am relieved to finally be able to give people an answer. I am delighted to be part of the purchase of this iconic property. I intend to reopen as Chez la Vie at the Nelson and bring back many of the elements of my French bistro into the family dining market. We will be offering good quality fresh food for the people of Harrogate to enjoy.”

Simon Hall from leisure property specialist Fleurets who handled the sale said: “The property generated a lot of interest from operators and developers, but I am delighted that Tony and his colleagues have secured the future of this wonderful public house. I am sure he will put it back on the map as the place to go in the area.”

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