Porta Tapas is set to revitalise the former Greens site in West Didsbury, promising fresh and vibrant Spanish cuisine.
- The popular vegetarian venue Greens, closed in January due to financial pressures including increased rent and energy costs.
- Ben and Joe Wright, behind Porta Tapas, plan to open in November, bringing their unique dining experience to the area.
- The Wright brothers have a history of successful establishments, with Porta branches already in Chester, Altrincham, and Salford.
- The new restaurant aims to uphold the legacy of Greens while introducing a no-bookings, relaxed atmosphere.
The former site of Greens restaurant in West Didsbury, long cherished for its vegetarian menu, is on the cusp of transformation. In January, Greens, having been an integral dining option for over thirty years, announced its closure, citing soaring rents and rising energy costs among the significant challenges, as explained by Simon Rimmer, a key figure behind the establishment. The premises on Lapwing Lane have since remained empty, awaiting a new venture.
Ben and Joe Wright, the entrepreneurial minds behind the acclaimed Porta Tapas bars, have taken over this vacant site, with the aim of launching a new dining space by November. They plan to inject life back into the location with their signature fresh and vibrant tapas experience, promising customers the same infamous good vibes that have characterised their outlets. Situated strategically opposite The Metropolitan pub, the site is poised for renovation to accommodate this new culinary journey.
Porta, celebrated for its authentic Spanish bar-inspired atmosphere, offers a comprehensive menu curated to meet Joe Wright’s exacting standards. The brothers highlight their commitment to maintaining an informal yet quality dining experience, stressing that the charm lies in its ‘no bookings’ policy with patrons often enjoying an ice-cold sherry while they wait. This approach has been successful in their previous openings in Chester (2012), Altrincham (2016), and Chapel Street, Salford (2018).
Ben Wright expressed enthusiasm for the new venture, revealing their surprise at discovering the location after years of searching for the perfect fit. He appreciates the community feel and architectural appeal the area offers, anticipating building strong local connections. Joe Wright, reflecting on the historical significance of the site, conveyed respect for the achievements of past proprietors and acknowledged the responsibility of continuing a beloved legacy.
This acquisition is a continuation of the Wright brothers’ food journey, which began with ‘Joseph Benjamin’ in Chester in 2006, later evolving into Porta. Joseph Benjamin maintained a Michelin Bib Gourmand for twelve years before it evolved into a larger Porta Tapas bar. Their pathway reflects a combination of entrepreneurial spirit and respect for culinary traditions.
The upcoming launch of Porta Tapas at the former Greens site marks a promising new chapter, blending community heritage with innovative dining.
