Byrne takes over Liverpool’s Vincent

Backed by Medusa Hospitality, chef Aiden Byrne has acquired the Vincent Café & Cocktail Bar in Liverpool’s Exchange Flags from owners Paul Adams and Steven Gerrard, for an undisclosed sum.

The venue will continue to trade under its existing brand for now, relaunching as The Metropolitan Bar & Grill Rooms later this year.

The deal follows Byrne’s return to Manchester House in December, when a group of investors backed him in taking on the restaurant he operated under Living Ventures from 2013 before leaving to set up 20 Stories – Manchester house is now known as MCR.

Byrne said: “We are keen to have a seamless takeover as we run into the Grand National festival. Our patrons’ experience remains as always the focus for me and my team.

“I have built my reputation with a fine dining tasting menu, however, I have always wanted to deliver a high-end grill rooms concept. The realisation of The Metropolitan Bar & Grill Rooms is a lifetime ambition to pay my respects to legendary venues like The Savoy Grill and The Grill at the Dorchester, who have set the standards for all to aspire to.

“The menu will be classic, honest food, delivered really well by the best team of chefs around, and a front of house that you can expect incredible service as standard.”

Adams added: “Steven and I are happy to have brokered a deal that will see the venue go from strength to strength. We are truly proud to pass on the reins to Aiden and his team and wish them continued success. We would also like to thank our loyal patrons, knowing that they are in great hands.”

Adams established the Vincent hotel and dining brand in Southport, an operation that continues to trade, opening the 190-cover Exchange Flags venue in 2015. He and Gerrard also previously operated the Warehouse restaurant in Southport.