Weekender: Changes planned for established steakhouse business

The Bells Steakhouse in Silkstone, South Yorkshire, has been bought by business partners and local operators, Jonathan Tiffany and Paul Noonan, who plan to rebrand the business as The Bells Bar and Kitchen.

The previous owners, also experienced, are retiring; having run successful venues in Yorkshire.

The new owners have already taken over the helm and will be implementing some business development plans in January.

Tiffany said: “Paul and I are absolutely thrilled to have purchased the business and at the moment are working hard to re-establish the venue and are reviewing the operational running. We intend to implement greater changes in the New Year.”

Latest plans include re-branding the business as well as re-focusing the food offering, creating a more casual dining concept. The business will still be food-led and serve a modern British cuisine, however Tiffany and Noonan intend to increase the lunchtime trade as well as capitalise on the outdoor area and pizza oven.

Nick Thomas of Fleurets brokered the off-market confidential transaction and the sale price is undisclosed.

Thomas said: “Jonathan has a wealth of experience in the hospitality trade having owned and operated The Hepworth at Hepworth and also the Ford Inn, near Holmfirth, both of which were sold through Fleurets Leeds office.

“I wish Jonathan and Paul all the very best at The Bells and a long and happy retirement to the vendors.”