Restaurant Associates Venues secures 10-year Bristol City Council contract

Restaurant Associates Venues has secured a 10-year contract to manage catering and hospitality operations across multiple sites for Bristol City Council.

The deal will see the company retain its existing presence at M Shed and Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, while expanding to new locations including City Hall, Central Library, the Create Centre and eight park café outlets across the city.

The agreement extends a longstanding partnership between the council and the hospitality firm, with a stated aim to provide “high-quality, sustainable and community-driven hospitality”. 

Restaurant Associates Venues will deliver services across retail and event spaces, covering a range of functions from corporate events to private celebrations.

Former MasterChef: The Professionals winner and National Chef of the Year Steve Groves will lead menu design and supplier procurement. 

The approach will focus on supporting local businesses and using seasonal produce. Menus will range from grab-and-go items to reworked café staples, with all sites maintaining the Bristol Eating Better gold standard.

The contract includes a refurbishment programme for several locations, including major upgrades to the M Shed Café and selected park cafés. Work is expected to begin this summer.

Dirk Talsma, managing director, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to continue our valued relationship with Bristol City Council and to extend our presence across some of the city’s most iconic and community-focused venues.

“This contract represents an exciting opportunity to bring fresh ideas and enhanced hospitality experiences to the people of Bristol. We are passionate about supporting local suppliers, utilising fresh, seasonal produce and creating spaces that reflect the city’s vibrant culture. We look forward to this next chapter and to working closely with Bristol City Council to bring our shared vision to life.”