Lola Lo in Bournemouth will re-open as Sakura, the company’s Japanese-style bar brand, on 22 August. Sakura will offer full table service, and the venue will feature dark woods contrasting with light leather seating, a sunken bar and illuminated dance floors.
The drinks menu will include premium champagnes, wines and spirits, as well as classic cocktails such as the Bellini, Mojito and Cosmopolitan, and a range of more Japanese-influenced concoctions.
For example, the Snake Snap is made of butterscotch flavoured sake, butterscotch schnapps and Amarula shaken with hazelnut syrup, cream and milk, and Cherry Blossom – Luxardo amaretto and cherry liquor, blended with lemon and cranberry juices.
Leigh Nicolson, Eclectic’s chief operating officer, said: “Japan has a very distinctive approach to design, and we like to think that we’ve managed to bring the best of it to Bournemouth.”
Embargo Republica
On the same night, Embargo 59 onLondon’s King’s Road will be rebranded Embargo Republica, aiming to capture the spirit and style of Cuba.
Entered through a cigar shop, the bar has been revamped and expanded, and the rooftop bar has been enlarged and re-designed. The new look features exposed brickwork, timber exterior and vintage furniture.
The new brand will have a strong focus on music, with live bands, DJs and acoustic acts taking to the stage every week.
“We have gone all out to create a tropical haven that oozes style and finery through the essence of Cuban al-fresco living, from the chilled-out vibe of the early evening to the all-out pleasure of dancing the night away to smooth, sensual beats,” said Andy Johnson, the venue’s general manager.
The drinks menu also includes premium champagnes, and a rum bar offering more than 20 rums from across the world.
Eclectic recently announced the acquisition of two sites in Sheffield and Liverpool where the brand plans to open Polynesian-themed Lola Lo venues.
The company also launched its first New York-inspired Dirty Blonde venue in Brighton in March.