By Majella Taylor, New Openings Editor, H&C News: South West restaurant group to make Dorset debut.
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Cornwall born bar and restaurant, Hub Box, will be opening its first ever Dorset establishment in early October. This will be the twelfth opening for the burger and beer restaurant group, with venues spanning the south west and beyond.
Hub Box has seen demand soar for its premium burgers and eclectic drinks selection across existing sites over the past year, inspiring the company to broaden its horizons and find a new home in the heart of Brewery Square.
Its new 120-seat Dorchester restaurant will serve up an acclaimed offering of gourmet burgers, hand-cut fries, cocktails, and craft beers, all served with a smile.
Somewhat unusually, Hub Box opened three new restaurants in lockdown and reported record sales of £12.6m earlier this year, bucking the trend of many hospitality businesses since the pandemic.
The company champions seasonality and provenance, sourcing ingredients across the region including grass-fed moorland beef from Launceston-based butcher Philip Warren, and free-range chicken from Castlemead Poultry in Radstock.
Staple dishes at Dorchester Hub Box will include its award-winning Big Kahuna Burger, buttermilk-fried chicken Dirty Disco burger, and delicious hot dogs from Rare and Pasture; an artisan, organic charcuterie and smokery, plus a range of plant-based and meat-free alternatives.
With indoor and outdoor dining spaces and a dedicated bar area, the design and décor will emulate Hub Box’s signature unique style. The design will celebrate South West coastal and surf culture with a modern and spirited feel, while also giving a nod to the site’s rich 19th century architecture and heritage as a former brewery. In-keeping with Brewery Square’s regular showcase of Dorset talent, the restaurant décor will feature the work of local suppliers, as well as focus on sustainability with reclaimed materials.
Charlotte Spracklen, Centre Manager at Brewery Square commented: “We’re thrilled that Hub Box has chosen Brewery Square to host its first Dorset restaurant. The company’s commitment to celebrating local produce is in-keeping with our own values, as we pride ourselves on showcasing the very best that Dorset has to offer with our diverse mix of businesses.
“Hub Box will add to our exceptional quality restaurant offering, giving people extended choice, and transforming their visit to Brewery Square into even more of a memorable experience.”
Richard Boon, Founder and CEO of Hub Box added: “Brewery Square is a thriving destination in Dorset’s county town which lends itself perfectly as a location for our restaurant. As a proud South West business, we believe in choosing areas which celebrate local culture and drive awareness of independent businesses.
“Our Dorchester restaurant signifies a milestone in our journey as we venture into a new county, bringing job opportunities to the area and growing our passionate team culture. It’s a truly exciting time for Hub Box and we’re looking forward to welcoming the Dorset community through our doors this autumn.”
Hub Box’s new Dorchester restaurant will create approximately 25 full-time and part-time job roles.
Restaurant News is Sponsored by Santa Maria Foodservice UK
