Popular Powys tapas bar Tomatitos under new ownership

A new era for Tomatitos Tapas Bar in Hay-on-Wye began on Friday, November 14, with this being the first night under the stewardship of new owners, Epicure, the team behind the Hay Castle Cafe and Hay Distillery.

The Lion Street eatery has been owned and run by the duo of Thalia Rouse and Tricia Jones for the last 13 years, but they stepped aside recently.

Epicure have taken over and opened for the first time on Friday, just serving drinks for now, although they say the kitchen will be back up and running this Wednesday, November 19.

“Huge thanks to Thalia and Trish for trusting us with the running of Tomatitos Tapas Bar in Hay-on-Wye,” read a post on the venue’s Facebook page last month, after news of the takeover was confirmed.

“We’re honoured to continue their legacy and ethos of this much-loved spot in town.

“We promise to bring great food, friendly service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

“It’s such a special place and we can’t wait to start this new chapter.”

Upon the news of the handover, Trish and Thalia said: “So, we are handing our super little business over to the fabulous Epicure, the team behind the Hay Castle Cafe and Hay Distillery.

“Thanks so much for the last 13-and-a-half years of support, it's been so much fun. We love Hay.

“We will be serving our last drinks Saturday, November 8, and look forward to seeing you on the other side.”

Last Tuesday, they added: “Thanks so much for all the good wishes and send off you've given us. It's been amazing.

“And now the keys have been handed over to Epicure Events and we can't wait to see how they will continue to develop our lovely tapas bar. Best of luck guys.”

People locally and from afar have reacted excitedly to the news. “Good luck team I know you’ll smash it,” said Nicola Craven.

Julie Leonard added: “Wishing you all the best. Looking forward to you being there. Will be in very soon.”

And Carol Sykes said: “Wishing you much success and looking forward to some happy times in Tomatitos.”

Epicure has been busy searching for new staff, including a sous chef, front of house staff and kitchen porters.

The kitchen will be re-opening this Wednesday. Hours at Tomatitos going forward will be: Wednesday 4-11pm (food 5-9pm); Thursday, Friday and Saturday 12pm-11pm (food 12pm-3pm and 5-9pm).

Visit Tomatitos Tapas Bar at No38 Lion Street in Hay. Alternatively, call 01497 820772, email info@haytomatitos.co.uk, visit the website at haytomatitos.co.uk or check out the Facebook page.