An award-winning restaurant brand in South London could serve up a mini empire to an experienced entrepreneur or foodie with a dream of success, when its current owner steps down due to family commitments.
The Tapas Room, which offers a tapas menu and specialist wine recommendations, was established in 2017 in Tooting Broadway Market by founder Paul Belcher.
Since then, it has grown to three restaurants operating as separate limited companies, with opportunities to grow further if the new owner wishes.
The popular chain, which is on the market with Hilton Smythe Business Advisors, has an ethos of individuality for each of its restaurants, allowing them to grow as separate entities while under a recognisable name, supported by an experienced marketing manager and excellent management and chef teams.
In addition to regularly being voted Diners’ Choice on OpenTable, in 2021, the group took home the Decanter Best Spanish Retailer Award (UK) and this year launched its own app to encourage repeat custom and loyalty.
All sites have made a strong recovery from the pandemic, with significant profits and considerable turnover in each restaurant.
Owner Paul Belcher said: “The Tapas Room will be an excellent investment for someone looking to realise their dream of owning their own restaurant group, or for an established hospitality owner.
“Our model of allowing each restaurant to grow its own personality while remaining part of the group is one of the many reasons why we’ve been so successful. I’ve personally supported each of the manager and head chef teams and seen them bring a unique spark to each site.
“Building up The Tapas Room from its roots in Tooting has been a labour of love, and I’m committed to working closely with whoever takes the reins to make sure that they can continue building the brand with my support before I hand it all over. I can’t just walk away when the deal’s done!
“Hilton Smythe has been incredibly supportive in managing the sale and I look forward to meeting the next person in The Tapas Room’s story.”
Gareth Smyth, CEO of Hilton Smythe Group, said: “South London is prime location for hospitality and an award-winning, well-established brand like The Tapas Room would be a feather in anyone’s cap.
“There has, of course, been turbulence in the hospitality sector, thanks to the pandemic, but The Tapas Room has not only survived but has thrived in a post-COVID world, with each site bouncing back and showing a significant increase in both turnover and profit.
“Interested parties have the added bonus of an extended period of support from the group’s founder, Paul, who has committed a period of at least six months to do a full handover, where he’ll share his expertise and knowledge. It’s a superb opportunity for the right person.”
Further details about the sale of The Tapas Room can be found here.