Arc Inspirations to open two more bars in 2014

The Pit - an underground, urban-themed bar with a US food offering - will open to the public in a venue on Merrion Street on 31 August.

The launch comes just a little over a month since Banyan York became the company's ninth bar​ when it opened in a former chapel at the beginning of July.

Arc Inspirations managing director Martin Wolstencroft revealed the firm was already planning to expand further after ploughing £800k into The Pit which is located within Leeds' burgeoning Northern Quarter. 

"We are looking to grow our portfolio of bars in Yorkshire with two more bars opening next year," he said. "We want to enjoy the process of growing our portfolio but enjoy everything we do."

Arc Inspirations, which was founded in 1999 and opened its first bar in Headingley a year later, is one of the largest bar and hospitality businesses in the north of England - it currently employs around 400 staff.

Leeds​

The Pit will launch in the Northern Quarter in Leeds which is viewed as a developing area of the city and has seen a large amount of hospitality industry growth in recent years - a number of casual dining venues and independent bars have opened their doors including North Bar, Lounge Bar & Grill and Sandinista. 

"This area of Leeds is one of the best locations for independents," said Arc Inspirations managing director Martin Wolstencroft.

"We’re not about followers, we enjoy our independence and so do our customers. They want the best but also we want our customers to expect the unexpected."

The new bar's name has been inspired by its underground location but also traditional US cooking techniques - the kitchen will boast both a smoker and broiler.

As well as a cocktail and craft beer-focused drinks offering, The Pit will offer a range of steaks, lobsters, burgers, ribs and wings. The food offer has been created by group executive chef John Richold.

The urban interiors of The Pit include oak and steel furniture created by local blacksmiths, a den with ping pong tables and a private room for parties, beer education events and cocktail master classes. The latter will be delivered by the team of bartenders who will be trained by Declan Mcgurk, bar manager of the American Bar at The Savoy and formerly Arc Inspirations’ bar development manager.

"The Pit is very different to our other bars in Leeds, Harrogate and York, and we recognise that quality in everything we do is a must," he said. "The urban, contemporary look is no excuse for not being at the top of our game."