Watford is set to see some new businesses open in town while others are set to return or boost their offering.
There has been lots of High Street movement so far in 2024 and so this list rounds-up the openings currently in the pipeline, from Starbucks all the way to unique bars.
Take a look ahead with the list below:
Bla Bla Café
Bla Bla Café will be opening in Clarendon Road in June or July.
The company, which has its only existing café in Weybridge, prides itself on friendly service and sustainability, offering its own blend of coffee and only using plant-based or 100 per cent recyclable packaging.
Jardin, Mexican Concina and Tequilla Bar
Last year, SOBE Restaurant Management Group Limited said it plans to open a bar, called Jardin, Mexican Concina and Tequilla Bar, in the former Colombia Press former unit in The Parade.
It was initially set to open at the end of last year or early this year.
Although spring is coming to an end with no opening or any update, work refitting the unit appears to have recently got underway.
Popeyes
A planning application seeking for approval for new signage at the former Grounded Kitchen in Watford High Street suggests chicken restaurant Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen could open there.
The proposal for an illuminated shop sign includes drawings of the chain’s distinctive orange branding and logo.
There is no word on an expected opening date.
Black Sheep Coffee
Speciality coffee chain Black Sheep Coffee has been opening new locations up all over the UK recently and hoarding is currently up on an atria Watford unit.
The branding says it is "coming soon" but strangely Watford is not listed among the many “coming soon” locations on the Black Sheep Coffee website.
The company has been contacted for more information.
Starbucks and Nandos
Part of the former Chiquito’s unit at Woodside Leisure Park, off the A405, is set to be turned into a Starbucks while the larger part will become a Nando’s.
Although Nando’s has only confirmed that it will be opening sometime this year, Starbucks says it aims to open at the end of June.
Wagamama
Wagamama has confirmed it will be opening a new location in Watford as part of a batch of 10 restaurant launches.
Planning documents indicate it also be in Woodside Leisure Park, in the former Frankie & Benny’s unit.
No opening date has been confirmed but work is underway to get it ready and more news could be on the horizon.
The Horns
One of Watford’s favourite pubs and music venues, The Horns, in Hempstead Road, only shut at the end of last week, but it has already been confirmed that it will be reopening “with a fresh direction under new management”.
Pub company Stonegate, which owns the venue, says it will be back open “in the coming weeks”.
The Red Lion
It is not quite a new opening as the pub currently opens for Watford FC matchdays, but The Red Lion will soon be getting new management after the lease was sold.
Once they are in place, the pub will open full time every day instead of just for games.
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