The Yard in Ilkley has a new owner, a new name and is having a re-vamp, all with a good old-fashioned warm hospitality at its heart.
The Courtyard’s new owner, Ali Allawa is no stranger to the venue. He has worked there in some capacity for 12 years including in the role of General Manager. Over the years Ali has seen what has worked well and knows what his customers like, and he is bringing all this experience together into what he feels is the perfect combination.
More than anything, Ali is keen to ensure that hospitality is the number one priority and to ensure this is offered consistently he is making it a real family affair. His wife Suzie will be assisting with the management of the bar and their son Mason, who already works in hospitality, will be learning the ropes with a view to taking over the business in the next couple of years.
Ali says: “I am thrilled to be taking this over as a family concern and putting our stamp on it. We can’t wait to launch our new menu and brings our ideas to fruition. We really believe in the concept of The Courtyard and would love to open more Courtyards around Yorkshire in the coming years. Especially in Skipton which has been our family home for 13 years.”
The venue is closing for refurbishments for a few days this week to spruce up its décor, a re-opening celebration will take place for customers old and new on Friday 23rd June, when everyone will be invited down to raise a toast with a glass of bubbly and some samples of the new menu, which will include fresh stone-baked pizzas from the newly installed pizza oven. Most of the new menu will be available as a take-away option.
Ali is also bringing back some other elements that have worked well in the past including the bar’s fresh coffee machine, cask ales and seven day a week opening.
Watch this space for the official launch party in July, when Ali has secured a sporting legend, one of his many celebrity sporting contacts to meet and greet guests and to formally cut the ribbon.