A new bar with big city ambitions has opened in what was SoBar in Avenham Street.
Baker Street opened in March after a 14-month £1m renovation that has totally transformed the building.
And as we discovered during Thursday night drinks, the latest Holt Pub Company venue is now a super stylish bar set over three floors.
With a glass of Prosecco in hand we chatted to co-manager Michelle Ragozzino.
She said: “A lot of love has gone into the project and it’s so exciting to be open after a few setbacks and delays. We’ve done everything from putting in new drainage to adding a mezzanine.
“Now everything is complete it feels a lot different in here. It’s much more open, and the character of the place is starting to get going.”
The venue, which dates back to 1818, has been brought back to life by joint owners and Prestonians Dave Holt and Darren Cooper after they were handed the keys in November 2017.
Read more: Former SoBar to become venue inspired by Manchester’s Albert’s Schloss
It’s clear to see the care and attention to detail that has gone into the renovation. The exposed brickwork, living walls and copper bar work well together, and even the finishing touches like the choice of champagne flute contribute to the stylish environment.
The drinks menu is extensive and well thought out, but if you want something off menu the staff are also happy to oblige.
According to Michelle the new offering has been a real team effort. She said: “Absolutely everyone has put their heart and soul into getting the place ready. The builders were here on the opening night and it was great to see them all enjoying it. We have really grown as a massive family.
“Every credit to Stratos and Angelo’s too, they’ve been really supportive during all the works. We’ve even become good friends with the traffic wardens!”
This family feel comes across by way of smiling faces and friendly service. It’s also seen in the way Michelle wants everyone to be part of Baker Street’s direction.
She said: “We already run events most nights of the week such as an interactive quiz on Mondays and an open mic on Tuesdays. We have DJs until 3.30am on Fridays, and there’s plenty of live music including bands all day from 3pm on a Sunday. There are large TVs for sport, which can be separated to show different games at the same time.
“But we really want our customers to tell us what they’d like to see and do here. We also encourage our staff to put their flair forward and contribute to what happens. We’re up for doing more quirky stuff, like the flame throwers we had on the opening night. We want to naturally grow and eventually we’ll get a feel for what it’s going to become.
“I’ve been away for a while but coming back now, Preston really seems like a city – it’s got a metropolitan feel about it. We’re hoping to be part of that, and to be able to help bring more life to this area of the city too.”
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Have you been to Baker Street? Let us know in the comments below.