Vietnamese restaurant set for Derby’s Cathedral Quarter following property sale

A historic four-storey building in Derby’s Cathedral Quarter has been sold, with plans underway to transform the site into a new Vietnamese restaurant and café.

Located at 51 Sadler Gate, the Grade II-listed property spans over 2,000 sq ft and sits close to major regeneration sites, including the Becketwell development and the University of Derby’s future business school.

The deal was handled by BB&J Commercial, with surveyor Cameron Godfrey leading the sale.

Godfrey said: “There is a clear trend emerging in Derby city centre, where there has been a noticeable increase in independent business owners looking for well-located, characterful properties to establish and grow their businesses. What made 51 Sadler Gate particularly appealing was its freehold status—something that is increasingly hard to come by in the city centre—combined with its flexibility for a range of planning uses and redevelopment potential.

“We received strong interest from a broad range of sectors, reflecting a growing appetite for city centre investment opportunities with long-term value. The property was ultimately purchased by an upcoming restaurant and café owner who is eager to bring something new and vibrant to Derby’s food scene. Their concept is focused on showcasing authentic Vietnamese cuisine with an ambition to make a mark within the local market.

“I am pleased to have assisted in breathing new life into a building with such history and am happy to have secured my client a great deal.”