West Ivy restaurant to open at The Rock

Two school pals who clubbed together to open their first restaurant just over two years ago are now opening their second venture here at The Rock.

Ata Mubeen and Luke Rafferty are making the final touches as they prepare to open West Ivy,  which they say will offer a dining experience found in places such as Manchester and London but without the city centre price tag.

The duo already own and operate Smoke Yard in Oldham and have enjoyed great success since opening in 2015.

The pair has extended and transformed their unit at The Rock, adding a new bar, toilets, seating and outside lighting. They will officially open on Thursday 25th January.

Ata said: “We believe dining has evolved massively over recent years and it has become such a big part of peoples’ social lives. At West Ivy we believe dining is not just about good food and drink but about the whole experience. That’s why everything we offer is special, from the décor – which incorporates a botanical theme with touches of Italian marble and dim filament lighting – to the music which incorporates Motown, R&B, Blues, Hip-Hop, Soul and Pop. This all creates a great atmosphere, whether you’re popping in for a quick drink or making an evening of it with a booking. And of course the food and drink has plenty of twists from your usual restaurant.”

The restaurant’s menu includes grilled food, smoked food, world dishes and afternoon tea and choices include hanging barbequed skewers, steaks, burgers, halloumi fries, Brazilian curries, exotic salads and more.

The drinks menu features everything from craft lagers, ales and cocktails to artisan coffee, freak shakes and a candy floss prosecco.

Explaining why they’re opening at The Rock, Luke added: “We really loved the look and feel of The Rock especially with its growing restaurant scene. We often come shopping here and could see how busy and alive it is as well as offering high quality retailers that are only usually found in city centres.

“The people of Bury have such a strong and welcoming community which made us want to bring something truly unique to its dining scene.”

West Ivy will be located in The Rock’s leisure quarter close to Frankie and Benny’s and Pizza Express.

Arnold Wilcox-Wood, Centre Director at The Rock, said: “We’re really excited to welcome West Ivy to the The Rock and we’re sure the restaurant will be a big hit with our visitors. This is a great addition to our tenant line-up and complements our leisure offering very well. The pair has had great success in Oldham and we wish them every success here in Bury.”