The new propietors of Joe’s, Union Street, Ryde, Giles Whitby-Smith, left, Freddie Lee, right, with manager Wayne Nolan.
AS IT was one of the Island’s best-known night spots and the venue that kicked-off the Island cafe/bar trend, it came as a surprise to many when Joe’s in Ryde went to administration last year.
But six months on, its new owners are confident the business is rebuilding its reputation as one of the best places to go for food and drink.
The business is now owned by Ryde businessman Freddie Lee and the first floor has recently been converted into fish restaurant Pescados by Giles Whitby-Smith. There are now 16 staff working in the building.
New operations manager, Wayne Nolan, who was headhunted for the post after running successful restaurants in Maidenhead, said: "I think the Island was lacking any proper fish restaurants. We can have a great selection of fish, fresh from the trawler every day, within about six hours.
"Our whole brand makes the most of local products.
He added: "We are trying to create a mine host feel, where you are greeted at the door and looked after the whole time. I think the previous owners took their eye off the ball. A reputation can take two months to lose and two years to rebuild but we are getting there. The feedback has been fantastic and we have had a lot of repeat business."
Reporter: ross.findon@iwcp.co.uk