A young chef and entrepreneur has opened her second business despite pressure from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Former Celtic Manor Resort chef Vivienne Read launched her catering van business Chef Read just six months ago with dreams of opening her own restaurant within four years.
But the 26-year-old said the venture has allowed her to build her confidence and move forward with her plans years ahead of schedule.
Her new restaurant, The North Street Bar & Grill, on North Street, Baneswell, opened on Wednesday for takeaway or home delivery only via JustEat and Newport Eats.
The restaurant, a joint venture with Vivienne's partner Leighton Newberry, will offer an initial menu including gourmet "around the world" burgers and chicken wraps.
The couple said they hope to serve afternoon teas, Sunday lunches, breakfast, and ‘bottomless’ brunches, as part of a new menu once they are able to open fully to customers.
"I’ve opened one business during the pandemic and that has gone so well it’s enabled me to expand," Vivienne said.
"When Leighton and I found out the North Street premises was available, we both felt there was no time like the present.
"My attitude now is if I can launch a business when I did and get through lockdown successfully, then I can do anything."
Vivienne has been working in the catering industry since she was 17 years old.
She spent six years working at the Celtic Manor Resort under the tutelage of respected chefs including MasterChef finalist Larkin Cen before becoming head chef at the Golden Lion in Magor.
The former St Joseph’s High School pupil made a name for herself in 2015 when she reached the final of Junior Chef of Wales, representing south Wales and winning the silver medal.
To order a takeaway from the North Street Bar & Grill, call 07729 527759 or visit their Facebook page for further information.
