Matt Oliver, 36, will be launching the Mediterranean restaurant, El Carnero, in Ramsbottom, a social dining, venue next month.
“Social dining is a more casual experience, not the old three-course-meal type of restaurant,” he said.
El Carnero will be housed at the former White Rabbit in Peel Brow.
In previous incarnations the building was the Good Samaritan and the Hearth of the Ram.
Matt was keen to acknowledge its history, which is why he’s decided to call his business El Carnero – Spanish for “Ram”.
“We are renting it for two years with a view to buying in the future,” said Matt, whose background in hospitality saw him owning a chain of franchised pizza restaurants in Rochdale, Bury and Bolton.
“I’m from Rochdale originally, but moved to Square Street, Ramsbottom four years ago.
“I really enjoy living here and the people are so friendly.
“I’ve been wanting to open in Ramsbottom for years. I felt like there was something missing on the dining front and believe a Mediterranean-style restaurant will be popular. I don’t think I could have found a better venue.”
The business, which he is hoping to open in early July, will have 120 covers on the ground floor, 60 covers on the first floor and 60 outdoor covers on sheltered decking.
It will specialise in tapas-style dishes, sharing boards, exceptional wines, and a distinctive cocktail menu—each crafted using locally sourced ingredients from local suppliers.
“Eventually, we’ll be looking at using the first floor for functions,” said Matt.
“In the future, we’ll also be looking at entertainment, but our priority at the moment is to get things up and running.”
The six-figure refurbishment of the premises is nearing completion, and Matt said it will have a brighter look, with natural, stone-coloured décor.
“We’re currently investing time and care into every detail, including essential renovations to breathe new life into this beloved space.
“We are committed to bringing Ramsbottom a fresh concept in a warm, community-focused environment where you can relax and connect.”
The venture is a family affair, with Matt’s parents Carl, 64, and Amanda, 58, on board, as well as his sister, Rachel, 34, and family friends, Mark Turner, 41, and Neil Greenwood, 65.