The rapidly expanding Koh Group has revealed plans to launch in Lymington, which will become its 12th site - its 5th in Hampshire - before the end of the year. The announcement follows successful openings in Winchester and Romsey this summer, as well as the launch of Salisbury earlier in the year. The company is on target to achieve its ambitious five-year plan of creating a 40-restaurant estate. The first opened in Boscombe in Dorset in 2009.
“The vibrant and bustling coastal port town of Lymington has been in our sights for some time now and we are delighted with the acquisition,” said Andrew Lennox, Koh Thai Tapas CEO and founder.
“We know that our loyal Lymington fans who travel regularly to get their KTT fix at our Ringwood and Christchurch branches, will be excited to hear of our opening. The site itself is extraordinary, with bags of character and an outdoor space which will set us apart from competitors in the town centre," added Lennox.
Expected to open in December in time for the busy festive period, Koh Thai Tapas will bring a taste of Thailand to the Grade II listed property - formerly home to the Spanish La Vina restaurant. The new opening with feature iconic Koh features for which the brand is known: stunning hand painted murals, ornate fretwork and the prominent wood clad bars.
The prime location, in the middle of the high street, is expected to attract a healthy footfall. The 100 cover site will have seating for 80 alfresco diners, in what promises to become a spectacular garden space.
Kevin Marsh of Savills acted as an agent on the deal, which has taken over 24 months of negotiations to complete.
Lymington, with its lively market town demographic of 14,000 people and large commuter base, had long been a target on the Koh Thai Tapas acquisition radar. Retaining a local charm, the restaurant promises to bring a burst of energy to the town with its popular Koh Thai Tapas menu, lively atmosphere and playful bar scene.
The picturesque Georgian destination on the edge of the New Forest, with a population of over 14,000 people, Lymington is an internationally renowned sailing resort and home to two marinas and a commercial fishing fleet, with excellent London rail and road connections.
Koh Thai Tapas will be open from December for lunch, dinner, drinks, takeaways and Christmas bookings.