COCKTAIL lovers could be sipping their favourite drinks at Romsey's newest bar next month, the owner has confirmed.
After shutting in 2019, the Santander branch at 14 Market Place will be revamped into a cocktail dining lounge.
In a nod to the former bank, the bar will be called The Exchange and could open on April 14 at the earliest, according to the owner - Naomi Randall.
Ms Randall stressed she is expecting to be "very busy" and will not take bookings for next month, but drinkers can look forward to sitting in the piazza under the outdoor heaters from mid-morning through to the evening.
She said the bar will be "relaxed by day and vibrant at night", adding: "We are really looking forward to celebrating with people who have waited so long to socialise with family and friends."
A range of cocktails will be offered to customers, including the Porn Star Martini, Espresso Martini and Mojito, along with the bar's "bespoke Romsey inspired range", according to Ms Randall.
The bar will initially have a smaller menu for customers eating in or ordering a takeaway.
Ms Randall said once lockdown restrictions are eased again on May 17 at the earliest, customers may get the chance to try the bar's gin experiences - where the public can taste different types of gin.
These must be pre-booked.
"Once restrictions [are further] lifted in May, our friendly, local staff will welcome people inside for brunch through to late in the evening, and will then introduce our exciting range of tapas and a larger menu of cocktails.
"We will then be taking bookings and offering a wide range of options from cosy booths to high tables," Ms Randall added.
A VIP launch event and cocktail masterclasses could also happen once all restrictions on social contact are lifted on June 21 at the earliest.
When asked how The Exchange will stand out from the crowd, the business owner said: "We are bringing something new to Romsey, both in the style of the bar, which is light and contemporary, and in the experiences we offer.
"We are the only bar specialising in cocktails and the only restaurant in the town centre offering tapas late into the evening."
To find out more about the bar, search The Exchange Romsey on Facebook and Instagram.
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