A highly-rated restaurant in Stokes Croft has reopened, just one month after its shock closure.
Jamaica Street Stores launched in September 2017, headed up by a team of five experienced restaurateurs including the former head chef at River Cottage Café, Charlie James, and Mitch Church, who was Bagel Boy's director.
Despite earning a raft of positive reviews for its quality, locally-sourced produce and industrial design, the restaurant closed last month with no explanation given.
But fans of the hip venue, based in the former Jamaica Street Studios building, will be pleased to hear that it has already reopened.
Following the closure, Charlie bought the business with his younger brother Philip, who has also worked in the kitchen at the River Cottage Café on Whiteladies Road.
Speaking to Bristol Live, Charlie explained why the restaurant closed and what prompted him to take up the reins.
"There was no difference of opinion, the others just decided they wanted to move on and work on other things, which meant they couldn't give the restaurant their full attention," he said.
"Me and Phil were then given the opportunity to buy it back and I was keen to do that as it's a beautiful space and everyone who came to eat or drink here always had a good time."
While Charlie was head chef at Jamaica Street Stores in the previous system, he will now adopt a more front-of-house role while his brother will replace him in the kitchen.
The restaurant will retain its focus on fresh, seasonal produce and people can expect to find classic British bistro fare on the menu once more.
The popular fried chicken with kimchi, peanuts and pickles will return, as will other well-ordered dishes, and there will be a weekday lunchtime deal with options starting at just £5.
Charlie said he also plans to host more events at the venue including live music and jumble sales.
Jamaica Street Stores is located at 37-39 Jamaica St, Bristol BS2 8JP. Its phone number is 0117 924 9294.
