Grade II-listed bar set to reopen after £1m investment

Grade II-listed York bar known as The Parish is set to reopen as Jalou after a £1.1m investment by new owner Cairn Group.

Cairn is launching the brand for the first time outside Newcastle and creating 30 jobs in the city.

The North East-based hotel and bar operator acquired The Parish, occupying an impressive 11th century grade II-listed church development, in August 2016.

Jalou is known for its cocktails and R&B music, like its sister Newcastle bar which opened in 2011.

Extensive refurbishment works will see a second bar created, a VIP level n the mezzanine level, as well as new flooring and decor.

It will launch on Good Friday on 14 April, open seven days a week.

Cairn Group director Naveen Handa said: “Jalou is a brand which I am so passionate about and as a result of its popularity in Newcastle we were keen to bring the concept to York’s vibrant leisure scene.

“We are making a significant investment into the venue whilst both keeping its employees and creating many new job prospects. We will be looking to grow Jalou’s presence over the coming years and bring this great brand to more cities across the UK.

“Refurbishment works are nearing completion and we are really looking forward to seeing the plans realised and officially opening to the public.”