NEW: Peruvian kitchen on Bold Street and Hope Street tapas bar

THEY are known for The Hub and a string of cheery French themed restaurants across city. But Liverpool Confidential fondly recognises - if barely remembers - them for their very good opening bashes.

Now the people behind Bistro Jaques, Pierre, Franc are the Button Street Smokehouse are looking to the Andes, inifnity and beyond with their latest pair of ventures.

Chicha, a Peruvian themed street kitchen, and a world tapas bar concept called The Refinery are the latest city centre "concepts" from Liverpool-based company Bistro Qui? Limited.

The first is in Bold Street and will take a unit on vibrant Bold Street, formerly occupied by fashion retailer Ran. The Refinery, meanwhile, will open on the corner of Hope Street and Myrtle Street within the new student accommodation development.

Liverpool-born directors Mark Friend and Stephen Slater opened their first venture, Bistro Pierre, in Button Street, over 12 years ago. They say the latest expansion is a result of the company's strong performance in the past few years and are planning northern domination with further sites in Liverpool, Manchester, Chester and Leeds. There is already one Bistro Jaques in Shrewsbury and another venue is coming up.

Says Mr F:  “We have spent years creating a restaurant brand that is focused on great value dining and fresh food. We are proud of our portfolio of restaurants and want to continue to innovate.“

Bistro Jacques on Hardman Street has already expanded into Shrewsbury

The company already has five city centre restaurants including three French-themed bistros – Pierre, Jacques,  Franc, as well as The Hub Alehouse & Kitchen on Hanover Street, Button Street Smokehouse in the city’s Cavern Quarter and out of the city, Shrewsbury’s Bistro Jacques.

Premise licences and planning permissions have been granted for both sites and work has begun to fit out the restaurants. Opening of The Refinery has been planned for early March, while Chicha is scheduled to open its doors in April.

Early March and April are are entirely clear in the Confidential diary, monsieurs.  Just say the word and the training will begin.