New lounge and cocktail bar set to open in Sheffield food hall

The people behind Kommune - supported by international drinks brand Campari - have transformed the ex-gallery space behind la Biblioteka book shop, into Aria – a lounge bar for couples and small groups.

“What we've done is move from high end street food in Kommune, to smaller, more considered plates for sharing, so the resident chefs can really show off what they can do.” Explains Jon Perry, who as well as co-founding Aria and Kommune, also owns Sheffield café, Tamper.

“That was important for us all. There's no point in us bringing in someone else to cook, when we already have amazing chefs in Kommune. And each kitchen has a distinct identity and personality and that's what they bring to each dish.”

Nick Morgan, who is co-founder of Kommune and Aria, added: “Aria is for the love of good company.

“I think that's something that's become more and more meaningful to people. One thing that everybody has learned through Covid is the need for good company and the need for connection which seems to come naturally to our Italian cousins. We aim to bring the essence of that but with a Kommune twist, it’s all about sharing great cocktails, wine and great food with good company.”

“Visually and there’s an element of reinventing the traditional in this space, Campari as a brand has always been connected to arts and creativity and we have played with that in the space, bringing rich colour and a touch of la Dolce Vita!”

The bar will feature specially curated cocktails, alongside a range of Eden wines and a craft beers.

Aria will be bookings-only and unlike the main hall which is app-based, will be full table service by expert wait staff, wearing New York cocktail bar inspired vintage jackets.

Jon added: “It’s somewhere special for date night, or for that night out with good friends, somewhere tucked away, with comfy couches where you can linger a little longer. It's a really nice fit and addition to the city-centre and we can’t wait to show it to everybody.”

Visit www.facebook.com/ariabarsheffield​​​​​​​