Matthew Parker at the opening of his new tapas bar Brawns. Picture by Jennifer Burton.
AFTER a long battle to get planning permission and a licence, a new restaurant has opened in Cowes.
Plans to open tapas bar Brawns in a former deli in the High Street were revealed last year.
Owner Matthew Parker said: "It has been a struggle. When I bought the place in July last year, I thought we might be open by Cowes Week."
Mr Parker, who runs the nearby Union Inn, said he had faced opposition from some residents but when the plans finally made it in front of the town council and the Isle of Wight Council, both gave their support.
"I went to the planning hearing and, after ten months of waiting, it was passed unanimously. We have jumped through so many hoops to get this far.
"We were packed for the preview night and fully booked on the Friday and Saturday and on Sunday we had a private birthday party. The feedback has been really good."
The building was originally a Brawn and Company butchers, which led to the name for the restaurant, and the original tiles and butchers hooks were kept as features during the refurbishment.
Former Lugley’s chef Sam Jolliffe has been appointed as chef.
Reporter: ross.findon@iwcp.co.uk