Cornerstone to reopen next weekend after refit

First the bar alone will open while the kitchen staff get familiar with the new kitchen.

Steering the takeover is Nineteen Bar & Grill general manager Marvin Odillard, with Fermain Valley Hotel and Rock Garden executive chef Andris Slezis heading the kitchens.

‘It was a sad situation to see it close due to Covid-19 difficulties and I didn’t want to see one of Guernsey’s oldest and best buildings go unused,’ Mr Odillard said.

‘Andris and I worked together for five years when we were together at Le Petit Bistro. We have a great team relationship, friendship and trust.

‘We’ve modernised the existing pub and have kept as many traditional features as possible. We have kept three TV screens because rugby will remain a big part.’

All hands are on deck as builders prepare the site for the reopening.

‘We’re on time and it’s all going well.’

Original granite walls, wooden beams and the underground wine cellar will feature with new decor.

Also new are the electrics and 3.5-metre bar, which is now on the left as you enter to make more room.

Up to 65 people can fit inside and there are 44 seats for diners.

‘We hope to fill the seats for Saturday and Sunday brunches and lunches where we will offer roast sharing dishes, with a whole chicken on the table or sliced beef. It will be very cosy and like being at home.’

Mr Odillard will be working from both Nineteen and the Cornerstone.

‘But they are completely independent. I hope they will complement each other as they will be very different, and bring a new venue to enjoy the pleasures I love of food, drink and socialising.

‘We are hoping to have a good relationship with the Cock and Bull and want to bring more people into this area to benefit both sites.’

A 10-year lease has been signed with the option to extend for another decade.

‘This is a long-term plan where we wanted a modern take on a traditional bar or restaurant, with good quality food, service and a fun atmosphere.’