Koh Thai Tapas (KTT) has unveiled plans to open a smaller version of its Thai restaurant concept that combines a takeaway and a bar.
An experimental version of the format - called Koh Noi Thai Tapas, meaning “Tiny Island” in Thai - is currently under construction in the Lilliput area of Sandbanks, Poole. If it proves successful, the format could be rolled out as part of KTT’s expansion plans.
KTT said: “Takeaway outlets have always had ‘dead space’ – not any more. KTT’s idea is to take on small sites which historically may have traded as 40/50 cover restaurants and convert the kitchens for a high turnover delivery service.
“The front space will then becomes a Thai Tapas bar where people sit and mingle over a chilled beer, cocktail or Thai Tapas selection.”
It would be particularly suited to residential areas with a big takeaway trade, the company said.
KTT managing director Andrew Lennox said: “We are incredibly excited about the launch of our new concept. It will finish off the family of restaurants we have created and give us greater versatility in an ever-more demanding and overcrowded market.
“Koh Noi will allow us to effectively cover cites where our present sites are at capacity whilst also allowing us to go into much smaller sites economically. We are really looking forward to seeing how the concept develops.”
Earlier this month KTT announced plans to raise £2m via online loan funding platform Thincats, as it looks to double its estate to eight sites by the end of 2014.
