Bath restaurateur pops the cork on second site

By Anita Jaynes on 11 August, 2017

The newest addition to Bath’s food and drink scene has opened its doors. Marty Grant and Richard Knighting, the brainchild behind Corkage on Walcot Street have opened their second site in the city. Corkage, Chapel Row opens today (Friday 11th August 2017) creating nine jobs for local people.

The original Corkage was opened on Walcot Street in December 2015 and fast became a firm favourite with foodies in Bath and further afield. Marty Grant, co-owner of Corkage said: “Our ethos is simple – make great wine and food accessible at the best price we can in a convivial atmosphere. This has proved so popular that most days we were turning people away because we couldn’t accommodate them. We soon realised it was time to develop the Corkage brand and when the site on Chapel Row became available we knew it was too good an opportunity to miss.”

Billed as an ‘independent fine wine shop, wine bar and small plate venue’ guests are encouraged to graze small plates of food whilst enjoying expertly matched wines chosen from the only wine list available – Marty’s encyclopaedic brain.

From lighter fish and shellfish plates to meat dishes with big flavours, or spiced vegetarian dishes the menu aims to challenge wine choices and encourage an interest in pairing wine and food. Dishes are seasonal and may change daily according to what is best on the day from local, trusted suppliers.

The new site on Chapel Row has 48 covers with seating for a further 30 al fresco. On entering guests are greeted by a parquet topped bar area flanked by hundreds of wine bottles and a cosy fireside seating area in the window – sure to become one of the most coveted tables in Bath. On from the almost alchemist-like feel of the bar area is the light and bright back restaurant with its walls lined with vintage wine posters, curios and bespoke copper tubing bottle holders. Chunky oak banquette seating runs the length of the room providing flexible seating options for cosy couples or parties alike.  The decked area outside will come into its own on warmer days.

Richard Knighting, co-owner, Corkage added: “We’re delighted to be opening this new site on Chapel Row. We’ll be offering the same excellent wine and food we’re well known for but the additional space means we can cater for more guests and create dishes with a bit more theatre so regulars can look forward to a few surprises on the menu.”

Marty and Richard have welcomed on board Mâté Andrasko as their new head chef at Chapel Row to work alongside Richard.  Mâté has worked as head chef at the Fox in Broughton Gifford, sous chef at Beaujolais and head chef at The Circus.

Pictured above: Corkage owners Marty grant and Richard Knighting, below images of inside the new Chapel Row restaurant. Photos by Pete Helme Photography.