Big expansion planned for top York restaurant

For a small restaurant, it has a big reputation.

Le Cochon Aveugle has won rave reviews for its food in the national press.

And the Walmgate restaurant has been named the fourth best restaurant in Yorkshire by Hardens Top 100.

Now the good news is – we can enjoy even more of its great food.

The French bistro has received £50,000 from the Business Enterprise Fund (BEF) to help expand the premises and create seven new jobs.

Authentic French experience

Run by Joshua and Victoria Overington, the bistro offers customers an authentic French experience. After opening in 2014 it was joined later by their wine bar, Cave du Cochon, also on Walmgate.

Joshua, who is the chef as well as co-owner, said the BEF loan will see seven new staff boost the team to 20.

“Not only will the team be expanding but the restaurant will increase in size to meet demand by allowing us to combine with our wine bar and install a larger kitchen,” he said.

“The new kitchen will allow us to offer a lunch menu, which is something we’ve never been able to do before – we’re excited to provide more for our customers and keep developing the menu.”

Josh is becoming a well-known face on the foodie scene – and even competed in BBC2’s Great British Menu last year.

The Business Enterprise Fund has an office in York and provides funding for businesses across Yorkshire and the North East.

Jeremy Meadowcroft, investment manager at BEF, said: “Le Cochon Aveugle is already an amazing establishment and the funding will allow the business to manifest into what Victoria and Joshua have always imagined.

“They both show clear enthusiasm for the restaurant and providing a true French dining experience for their customers – it’s what makes them outstanding business owners.”