Customers are still welcome say new owners who are turning city centre pub into new-look Giraffe Lounge
It's business as usual at a Newcastle bar which is undergoing a major revamp.
The Bottle Shop Bar and Kitchen in Waterloo Square,
which now has a new owner, is remaining open to customers despite the major revamp on the cards which will see it renamed as the Giraffe Lounge.
The pub was recently taken over by St Camillus Ltd and is set to have a facelift and refit which will include redevelopment of the current balcony area to incorporate it into a new restaurant.
One that is complete, the new-look venue - re-branded Giraffe Lounge - will be serving up a greater choice of food and drink, with the launch of a cocktail selection; a new lunch and daytime snack menu and bigger evening menu.
But, in the meantime, the new owners were keen to assure regulars there will be as little disruption as possible.
Managing director John Heron said: "We are keen to get the message out there that, although the bar has been takne over, nothing has changed and people can still enjoy everything we have to offer.
"We plan to make the refurbishment as slick and easy as possible when the time comes, and fully intend to make the Giraffe Lounge the most popular bar in Newcastle.
"This is a very exciting time for everyone involved and we are looking forward to starting work on this redevelopment."
The firm's parent company, St Camillus Care Group, also operates The Vault in Gateshead which is the UK's first hotel for young people with autism and learning difficulties.
This new venture will bring with it opportunities for such young people to learn more about the hospitality industry and build up job skills by working in the kitchens when the new pub opens.