An Irish chef has managed to get bank financing for his ambitious new restaurant.

Having worked in Scotland, London and Paris Richard McCracken now sets up shop in Ballyhackamore, East Belfast with his new restaurant Cyprus Avenue

Interestingly, his venture is backed by a total of £250,000 from Danske Bank. Karen Hoey, senior corporate manager at Danske Bank commented: “At Danske Bank we are keen to support businesses of all sizes. The hospitality sector is a major contributor to the local economy and is going from strength to strength.”

Mr McCraken said: “When I presented my business plan to Danske Bank, they bought into it straight away and were very keen to support me. They’ve been with me every step of the process and on hand for advice any time I’ve needed them. They’ll still be providing support on a day to day basis and it is reassuring that they are so supportive of a start-up business.
“Growing up I always wanted to have my own restaurant and cooking was something I fell in love with while studying in Glasgow. Every summer I would come home and gain first-hand experience with Danny Millar, working my way up from a kitchen porter through the ranks at Balloo House.”
The restaurant seats up to 50 guests and is a neighbourhood bistro that serves good local food whilst remaining affordable.