Gloucester’s appetite for new food and drink outlets is growing with three new faces for the city’s high street.
New, independent Caribbean restaurant and takeaway Island Bites opened its doors in June 2023, bringing an array of vibrant colours and flavours to Westgate Street.
This July, Café 72, an independent coffee shop on Southgate Street, opened its doors to welcome city centre customers.
Originally based in Eastgate market, its expansion takes over where Gemini Hair and Beauty Salon once was.
KFC is returning to its former location on Westgate Street this autumn, with the refit currently taking place. The restaurant opening will create 25 new jobs in Gloucester once renovations are complete.
Emily Gibbon, business manager at Gloucester Business Improvement District, said: 'It’s wonderful to see new and old businesses coming to Gloucester’s high street. Occupying empty retail units is making our city more attractive to both residents and visitors.'
Leader of Gloucester City Council, Councillor Richard Cook, said: 'High streets have faced some challenges over the last few years, especially as the nature of the retail changes with more people shopping online.
'However, I’m delighted that despite this, Gloucester still has a lot of interest from national retailers wanting to come here and a great mix of independents offering something different and encouraging people to visit the city.'
Many more food and drink businesses are set to make Gloucester their home over the next few months, including the much-anticipated Food Dock.
Hetty’s Place, Maneki Ramen, Sibling Gin, Wholly Gelato, Strip Steak Bar, Smashing Plates, artisan pizza business Bella Mia and burger specialists Chuck are expected to open shortly, as final work on the £3.5 million development draws to a close.
