Manchester is set to welcome an exciting new Belgium-inspired sandwich bar, as well as some of the most exclusive Belgian chocolates on the UK market.
Belgian entrepreneur Simon Dasnoy will launch his first artisan sandwich bar and bakery Robert & Victor, in Bruntwood’s St James’ building on Oxford Street this November.
The outlet, which is named after Simon’s grandfathers who were both farmers, will be serving up a delicious selection of seasonal sandwiches, acclaimed home-baked breads from the Lake District, high-quality pastries and award-winning artisan chocolates.
With a focus on natural ingredients and locally sourced produce its motto “Retour à l’essentiel” meaning ‘back to basics’ reflects its ethos for using no additives, flavour enhancers or preservatives in its products.
Customers will be able to choose from a selection of over 15 innovative recipes. Le Louisiane for instance combines homemade Cajun sauce, British chicken breast, cashew nuts, pineapple, carrots, tomatoes, mixed leaves.
Robert & Victor will also be the first UK retailer to sell Belgian pralines from artisan chocolatier, François Deremiens. Hailing from the same village as Simon, Deremiens has established an international reputation for his handmade chocolate and is listed amongst the top 10 chocolatiers in Belgium.
The chocolate and sandwich offering will be complemented by gourmet tea and coffee and a selection of French patisseries, supplied by Didsbury’s award-winning Bisous-Bisous.
Manchester’s booming economy and vibrant food and drink scene inspired Simon to launch his first venture in the city, with the St James’ building proving a particular draw.
He said: “I’m extremely excited to open my first venture here in Manchester. I visited many places in the UK as part of my market research and Manchester really stood out. It’s a dynamic city, full of opportunity, with a huge market for the types of products we will offer.