Vaulkhard Group’s new Cuban bar and restaurant Castro’s to create new jobs

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Growing leisure operator Vaulkhard Group is creating 30 new jobs as it prepares to open its latest Newcastle city centre venue.

The group, which owns a number of cafes, bars and restaurants in Newcastle, Gosforth, Ponteland and Morpeth including Blakes, Bealim House and Barluga, has recently acquired seven new sites following a review of the business and its plans for future growth.

Property deals the Newcastle-based firm sealed included the former Beeronomy bar and restaurant, which it bought out of administration and is now transforming into new Cuban-inspired bar and restaurant Castro’s.

The Latin-inspired food, drink, and cocktail venue opens soon at its location on Hood Street, after the group purchased the site from Newcastle Building Society.

Over the last two months, the Vaulkhard teams have been creating what they describe as Newcastle’s first authentic independent Cuban bar.

Castro’s will offer both vertical drinking and table service for its customers, as well as host outdoor space for al fresco dining.

The firm says it has the region’s largest rum selection, while the food menu will follow a Cuban theme, mixing traditional chicken, fish and rice dishes with Caribbean and South America favourites. The venue also has a second bar area which will host salsa dance classes, rum sessions, cocktail masterclasses, and a private booking area.

The group is recruiting for 30 new full-time and part-time roles at Castro’s, supporting the drive for hospitality jobs in the North East.

Ollie Vaulkhard, director, said: “July 19 marks an exciting date in everyone’s calendars, but it is being most keenly welcomed in the hospitality industry.

“We know the region wants to support local businesses, but we in the industry now have a duty to provide safe, enjoyable experiences. We know Castro’s will be a very welcome addition to the heart of Newcastle city centre.

“As a business, we’ve been lucky enough to come out of lockdown with a positive outlook, and now we want to give back to our customers who have helped us throughout the last 16 months with something new and exciting for their Newcastle night out.

“It’s vital the hospitality sector continues to innovate and give customers a great reason to socialise. At Castro’s, they’ll be able to fully immerse themselves in a Havana experience like no other – whether that be with friends, family, or work colleagues.”