Latin to close its doors

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7: Latin, the South American-themed bar and restaurant, is to close.

The business will be relaunched as Victoria Grill — “a North American city-style bistro”.

Latin will remain open this weekend but will close on Monday for the renovations ahead of the launch of Victoria Grill on Wednesday.

The takeaway Java Jive is to remain open.

Latin opened three years ago and appears to be a victim of the economic downturn, although Philip Barnett, president of the Island Restaurant Group, said there would be no job losses.

“We came up with the idea for Latin five years ago when Bermuda was a different place,” he said.

“People in this economy want to have recognizable, conventional food items and it’s just making sure we have as broad an appeal as possible.

“This food style will be popular with everyone, you won’t have to be in a particular mood to enjoy it.”

He said ‘key customers’ had been canvassed before the decision.

“We decided that their needs will be better met with a new food focus on broadly recognizable dishes in a classic ‘city bistro’ style,” he said.

Tom Tabor, formerly of the Seahorse Grill, Elbow Beach, is Chef de Cuisine.

He said: “A restaurant is all about the food, and these menus that executive chef Derek Myers and I have created really focus on the freshness of the ingredients and straightforward but expert execution of each dish.

“I am really excited to add my passion and style to the new cuisine.”

Kevin Rhyno will also transfer over from the IRG sister property Barracuda Grill as the maitre d’.

“In today‟s economy, it is more imperative than ever to give guests exactly what they want; and attentive, knowledgeable and professional service, with delicious and reasonably priced food is what we know we must provide to give maximum value to our diners,” he said.

“Most of my customers know my love of wines. My goal here is to build a realistic wine list and by the glass selection that has appeal across all price points, but most importantly is perfectly matched with the food.”