A large Watford bar and restaurant has closed despite only opening nine months ago.

Barrio in Watford shut last month, according to Watford BID, the organisation that works with businesses in the town centre.

Nightcap, which runs Barrio, has confirmed that the Watford branch has closed for the summer, but has declined to say if it will reopen or if the company is looking to introduce something else in the spot.

Watford Observer: Watford BID said the bar closed in June.Watford BID said the bar closed in June. (Image: Stephen Danzig)

The Latin-inspired bar replaced former favourite Bosleys at one of the area's prime nightlife spots, with Watford’s deputy mayor Aga Dychton cutting the ribbon in October.

Watford Observer: Aga Dychton cut the ribbon when the bar opened on October 27, 2022Aga Dychton cut the ribbon when the bar opened on October 27, 2022 (Image: Pearce Bates)

Speaking at the opening, she said: “I think the bar will be a great addition to Watford!

"It's very colourful and it brings something different, a Latin American theme."

Watford Observer: The Latin-inspired bar had a carnival themed opening. The Latin-inspired bar had a carnival themed opening. (Image: Pearce Bates)

Barrio, which is ran by Nightcap, has five other venues in central London, and the Watford branch was the first location outside the capital.

Nightcap is owned by former Dragons' Den star Sarah Willingham.

Commenting on the Watford location in 2022, Sarah Willingham, chief executive officer of Nightcap, said: "Watford is a vibrant town with a limited night-time offering but a captivated audience.

Watford Observer: Pictures from Barrio's opening nightPictures from Barrio's opening night (Image: Pearce Bates)

“We are so excited to bring Barrio to the neighbourhood in response to the growing consumer demand for high quality hospitality offerings, without the added expense of travel into central London. 

“Our new Barrio is ideally located in the centre of Watford and is a perfect fit for Barrio with its vibrant and colourful mix of Latino-inspired drinks, music and atmosphere. Who doesn't like margaritas and tacos?!"