Jamie Oliver is expanding his Italian themed restaurant chain into the city of York. As well as converting a Grade II listed commercial property for the new venture, the Naked Chef will also create around 100 jobs for Managers, Chefs and waiters, just to name a few.
The chain will form part of Jamie’s Italian Ltd, which currently has 26 stores across the UK, including: Bath, Cardiff, Liverpool and Reading. Jamie also has two international commercial properties in Dubai and Sydney.
Speaking of his new venture, Jamie Oliver stated: “York is such a beautiful city – I used to go there on holiday as a kid and I’ve wanted to find the right site there for a while.
“We’re in a fantastic location and it’s really going to be a wonderful place to eat, one of the jewels of the Jamie’s Italian collection.”
The commercial property dates back to the 17th centaury and will be restored to its former glory. The restaurant will boast exposed walls, Tudor roof trusses, an open kitchen and an outside dining area.
Speaking of the job opportunities, Jamie said: “We’re now recruiting and starting to train the very best local waiting staff, chefs and front-of-house staff, so we hope people will come and join us.”
But is there enough room for a new restaurant in York? Michael Hjort, Secretary of York Hospitality Association, thinks so: “York has a large number of chain operations, of which the Jamie’s Italian restaurant will be another one.
“There is certainly no harm in competition and I think it will be a welcome addition to the offer York gives to its visitors.”
This isn’t the first Grade II listed commercial property that Jamie has taken on. His Manchester restaurant, which dates back to 1933, is due to open next week. The grade II building is located on King Street and is spread over three levels.
Speaking of the Manchester restaurant, Jamie stated: “I’ve wanted to open a Jamie’s Italian in Manchester for years but we’ve never found the right location, until now. It’s going to be a wonderful place to eat and one of the jewels in the Jamie’s Italian collection.”
