NOW the new owners of Barton Arcade on Deansgate have had time to assess the situation, Pot Kettle Black (PKB) has been given the green light to expand their premises into what was the infamous Tracy's sandwich shop next door. As well as undergoing a general refurbishment, the popular speciality coffee bar is planning to incorporate new kitchen facilities and an express hatch for serving coffee and healthy breakfasts to grab and go.
Mancunians recognise the difference in flavour and quality of speciality coffees
Since its launch in October 2014, PKB has offered city centre customers a range of speciality coffees, teas, hot chocolates and fruit smoothies, as well as a selection of indulgent cakes. The new, larger space will allow for an additional twenty covers giving more people the opportunity to enjoy a new seasonal brunch menu which will feature modern interpretations on classic breakfast dishes.
St Helens rugby player and co-founder of Pot Kettle Black, Jon Wilkin, alongside business partner and Salford Red Devils' Mark Flanagan, says: “Lunchtime is our busiest time with people often queuing out of the door, so we knew we had to offer additional seating. The site we are in is perfect for attracting leisure and business customers so it made sense to expand our premises to cope with the growing demand.”
He is hoping their new expansion plans don’t cause too much disruption, so has restricted essential closure dates from 23rd May to 6th June while the refurbishment works take place.
The team is also recruiting, and are on the look-out for new charismatic, experienced baristas with an innate enthusiasm for making decent coffee and a love of good food. PKB only serves specialty grade Arabica coffee, grown in special microclimates and sourced from handpicked coffee farms.
“Coffee tastes and preferences are changing” added Jon, “with many aficionados turning to smaller independent coffee shops over the larger chains and we have really experienced the benefit of this change in tastes. We take great care and pride in each cup of coffee we serve and Mancunians recognise the difference in flavour and quality of speciality coffees.”
We certainly do. Flattery will get you anywhere Jon.
To apply for one of barista roles or for more information, visit PBK