Member Article

New Ilkley Spanish tapas bar opening from former Marco Pierre White restaurant chef

A new Spanish tapas bar, La Casita, is set to open in Ilkley’s Victorian Arcade on South Hawksworth Street.

The 68 cover tapas bar, co-owned by business partners Ben Riley, Simon Miller and Oliver Renton, will occupy the mezzanine level of this historic Ilkley building and will open its doors in March.

The new owners have renovated the upper level space in a Spanish style and plan to make the adjoining outside seating area a key feature of the bar.

Simon Miller, chef proprietor said: “The mezzanine area, reminiscent of laid-back Spanish street bars, was a huge source of inspiration for the look and feel of La Casita.”

Oliver Renton, front of house manager, said: “We want La Casita to be a relaxed local bar where the very best hispanic food and drink is celebrated.

“We’re hugely fortunate to have the stunning Victorian Arcade as our backdrop and can’t wait to welcome customers in a few weeks time - whether it’s just for a drink, nibbles or for a full tapas experience.”

Co-owner and investor, Ben Riley, originally from Otley, added: “Food and drink is a great personal interest of mine so I’m thrilled to be working with Simon and Oli to bring this passion to life.

“My grandfather lives in the Canary Islands and I enjoy visiting him and joining him for tapas in the local street bars and restaurants. He is 98 now so fresh tapas and the occasional glass of red certainly seems to have served him well!”

Simon Miller, from Menston, will be La Casita’s chef proprietor. Simon takes on this new venture with a track record at some of Yorkshire and London’s top restaurants, including head chef positions at the Fleece in Otley and Piazza by Anthony in Leeds.

Simon was also sous chef at Ilkley’s Michelin-starred The Box Tree from 2009 to 2011, a position preceded by chef de partie roles at Marco, Marco Pierre White’s restaurant in London, and the Noem Arch Design Hotel in the Czech Republic.

Simon’s talent was also noted when he became a quarter finalist on BBC2’s MasterChef: the Professionals in 2012.

In charge of the front of house operations is Oliver Renton from Menston, who also plays for Ilkley Rugby Club. Oliver has worked for over ten years in family pubs including the Craven Heifer in Addingham and the Red Lion in Burley-in-Wharfedale. His most recent role was at the Fleece in Otley where he worked alongside Simon.

La Casita will open for drinks and tapas six days a week, both at lunch time and in the evenings. The bar will also be available to hire for private functions.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Clare Burnett .