The Ochre Works, a new bar, restaurant and performance space opens today below the Vortex in the space previously used by the Little Sardegna restaurant. Will Gresford, manager of the London club, says: “It’s going to be a great place to grab a drink before heading upstairs for the gig. We’re serving a simple menu with great coffee and we will also be able to host gigs down there, and eventually also broadcast shows upstairs down to a flatscreen in the bar.”

The space has undergone a transformation over the last few weeks, with a new menu for the restaurant with all the produce sourced locally and no fixed menu. As the weather warms up, the adjacent square will also come into its own for al fresco dining complementing events planned for Gillett Square in the summer. From next week The Ochre Works will also be open during the day, with freshly made sandwiches, homemade soup, salads and coffee on the menu.