D&D sets sights on Leeds for two new restaurant concepts

The two new restaurants, set to open in spring 2013, will be located in the Trinity Leeds shopping centre in the heart of the city.

The opening will coincide with the opening of the shopping centre and will employ over 100 staff.

The group, which announced a 32% rise in profits this autumn​, said today that it is likely to launch a modern French concept in one of the restaurants and a bar and grill serving predominantly British food in the other.

Designed by Conran and Partners, the team behind two of D&D's London venues, Skylon and Coq d'Argent, the two restaurants will also feature an associated bars and a private dining room each.

Leeds​

Des Gunewardena, chief executive of D&D London said: “This is an important venture for us. We have always thought that Leeds would feature prominently as part of our plans to expand in the UK outside London.

"It is a city where people enjoy eating out and Leeds has a significant and sophisticated business scene.”

Land Securities’ retail leasing director, John Grimes, added: “Leeds is the second most important financial and legal services hub outside London with a catchment to support the aspirational and niche destination which we will deliver. Working with Des and his team on the development of their first UK venture outside London is a great opportunity."

D&D, which owns 30 restaurants in Europe, the US and Japan, has enjoyed a stable performance during the recession. The firm reported an increase in profits and turnover in September, and last year announced plans to launch its first hotel​.