Five hours to go! New Penistone wine bar/cafe/grill has all hands on deck before 6pm launch

The team behind Cucina Penistone and BARiSTA have been working all hours to get the new high street venue ready to open at 6pm this evening.

Karen Close, operational director of BARiSTA Yorkshire, said: “When we started this, I think many people stood back and thought we were slightly crazy; setting up in the midst of a pandemic.

“For us, there has never been a better time to pull together, supporting local suppliers in delivering amazing food, drink and events to the local community.

“The precedent set in the early days of the pandemic has helped too – we are determined to keep supporting the small local businesses that were absolute stars during the lockdown.”

In addition to offering food and drink, the team behind the new venue has big plans to turn it into a community hub, working with local groups and organisations to host everything from tarot masterclasses, and workshops in jewellery-making, calligraphy, and cocktails, to pudding and supper clubs, and a regular book club.

“Who knew there were so many book lovers out there?!” Karen added with a laugh.

“When we posted the idea of a book group to our Facebook page, I absolutely did not expect the stampede.

“We stood back a few weeks ago and asked ourselves, what is all of this really about for our customers? Our answer is ‘time.’

“The pandemic has shown us time is so precious - whether that be time to enjoy good food and drink, or time spent with family and friends.

“We’re all beyond excited about the future of our concept.

“We already have Cucina in Barnsley, and we’re driving the concept forwards to reach out to other areas and have plans to open more venues.

“If we can do our bit to support local business, employ local people and bring a bit of joy – we will.”

The new venue opens at 6pm this evening, for an invite-only launch, and will be open to the general public from 9pm.