A NEW bar and restaurant has hit the ground running after bringing a "city centre feel" into the heart of Rainhill.
Describing themselves as a team of "workaholics", Hannah Denning and her partner Ste Cooper, along with family business partners Samantha and Chris Pennington opened Carouse towards the end of November 2021.
Despite pandemic-related difficulties in getting the business ready for completion and opening amid a particularly challenging climate, the team's "hard graft" has paid dividends as the bar has quickly become a vibrant and popular hub in the village.
With a focus on small plates and bespoke cocktails, co-owner Hannah said that Carouse is all about creating a "whole experience" for customers.
In addition to centering their menu on what their customers want to see, this also involves organising regular events such as live music performances, gin and beer tasting nights, and bottomless brunch options.
Hannah said: "I had an idea that Rainhill was really missing somewhere like this.
"Me and my family love going out for bottomless brunches, travelling to Liverpool or Manchester, and just having a good time. So we wanted to bring this city-centre feel to Rainhill without having to travel anywhere.
"We've got a good location next to the train station so it gives people more variety here while bringing more people into Rainhill."
Despite the difficulties brought on by the pandemic and the more recent cost of living crisis, Hannah said that the independent business has had a "really promising" few months since opening.
Hannah added: "It's been amazing since we opened. It's chocker at the weekend and most Friday and Saturdays are sold out in the restaurant.
"We have offers on during the week so this keeps things steady. It's been really promising.
"I think people want to stay local more now and they know they're going to have a good time here, where we can tailor their experience just for them.
"We have a good relationship with the other local businesses and we are just trying to create a buzz in Rainhill."
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