WEDNESDAY saw the much-anticipated opening of Kendal’s newest cafe-bar, occupying a prime town centre location that had lain empty since the Covid pandemic.

Staff at Cortillo Lounge, part of the Loungers PLC chain, proudly opened the doors of the former Burton’s store on Stricklandgate at 9am yesterday.

General manager Daniel Andrews was there to warmly greet new customers, who were quick to sample the town's new offering.

He said: "It may have still looked like a building site on Monday but thanks to some hard work and a few late nights, it all went pretty smoothly and we were ready to go this morning.

"Obviously we're in a prime spot in Kendal, and I think we bring something really different to the town – we're so proud to be here.

"Loungers Bars are all about providing a home away from home.

The Westmorland Gazette: A view of the first floor of the LoungeA view of the first floor of the Lounge (Image: Darren Shield, Newsquest)

"The look of all the lounges comes from the heritage of the company.

"When the first one opened in Bristol around 20 years ago, the owners ran out of money, so ended up raiding their grandad's loft for decorations, pictures, lights, mirrors, anything they could find.

"So that's why the decor might look a little mismatched, but it’s a look that customers really like as it provides that homely feel – there's even some original family pictures on the wall.

The Westmorland Gazette: Original owners' family pictures on the wallOriginal owners' family pictures on the wall (Image: Darren Shield, Newsquest)

"The company's obviously growing rapidly now and is proving really popular with customers everywhere, so we do keep the offering consistent – what you find in one Lounge you’ll find in the others.

"We also try to provide a really relaxed atmosphere and cater for everyone – we’re big on gluten-free and vegan food as well as everything else.

"And if you want to come and have a burger at 9 in the morning, go for it, if you want a breakfast at 10pm, no problem.

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"The different Lounges have a lot of autonomy in how we engage with the community – that's really important to us.

"We support local charities, and host local groups, businesses, and we'll be doing games and quiz nights and things like that.

"We have a book exchange and a cupboard of board games that customers are welcome to sit down and play.

"We're still hiring staff – for the opening we’ve brought people in from some of the other Lounges just to make sure customers get the best experience possible."