Lark singing after Beannchor’s £1m investment

The Beannchor Group, which counts The Merchant, Bullitt and the Little Wing pizza chain among its many ventures,  has transformed a former  Wetherspoon’s pub in Lisburn at a cost of £1m.

The Lark, a live music venue and restaurant stretching over two floors and mirroring The Dirty Onion in Belfast, has created 30 new jobs.

Downstairs will host live music and offer an “extensive and creative drinks menu featuring craft beers and cocktails”, while the first floor will become the Group’s second ‘Yardbird’ restaurant – just like the Cathedral Quarter ‘s Dirty Onion.

The 60-seater “family-friendly” dining venue will specialise in rotisserie chicken, ribs and wings.

Last year Beannchor opened its £4m hotel, Haslem, in the Square, while in 2017 it added a Lisburn branch to its Little Wing Pizzeria empire.

Following the significant investment, the Lark’s interior has been dramatically transformed. Both floors provide diners with a warm and inviting space, complete with soft and ambient lighting, herringbone tables and spacious booths. A feature wall-art installation, created by local graffiti artist Visual Waste, is located on the stairway connecting The Lark and Yardbird, offering social media savvy guests the perfect Instagrammable backdrop.

Commenting on the opening, Bennchor director Conall Wolsey, above left, said: “We’re pleased to see our latest project, The Lark, come to fruition just in time for the people of Lisburn to enjoy a new and improved food and entertainment offering in the lead-up to Christmas.

“The opening of The Lark reinforces Beannchor’s commitment to further enhancing Lisburn’s growing hospitality scene. From operating our two other establishments – Haslem and Little Wing pizzeria, we know the demand for premium food and beverage and leisure experiences continues to grow.

“The Lark’s offering will appeal to a wide audience – from young professionals who are looking for somewhere to enjoy live music, food and an extensive drinks list without having to travel into Belfast, to families who are seeking a suitable dining option that will keep everyone happy.”