Park Side Kitchen to launch bakery and deli at Lakeside

Independent brunch operator Park Side Kitchen has announced an expansion of its footprint at the Amber Vista development in Lakeside, with the launch of a dedicated bakery and deli. 

The new site will occupy the unit previously held by Ballers Pizza, which will not reopen its restaurant doors this February following a period of temporary closure.

Both brands are owned and operated by the Fire and Wine Group. The decision to replace the pizza concept with a bakery-led model is a strategic response to increased local demand for takeaway and “grab-and-go” options. 

The new facility will produce fresh breads, pastries, and cakes on-site to supply both the Lakeside venue and Park Side’s original location in Heath.

While the physical restaurant for Ballers Pizza has been decommissioned, the group stated the brand will transition into a pop-up and events-based model.

Following a period of refurbishment, the new venue will feature a deli counter offering hot paninis and sandwiches, alongside a curated range of pantry items. 

The interior is being redesigned to sit alongside the existing Park Side Kitchen.

Sophie Martinez, co-founder of Park Side, said: “Since launching at Lakeside almost two years ago, Park Side has quickly become a local favourite. We’re so excited to be building on that by opening our own bakery next-door; it means we’ll be able to expand our product range whilst delivering both a relaxed, high-quality dine-in experience, and a seamless grab-and-go option.

“Though the brand will certainly live on, we are sad to say goodbye to Ballers in Lakeside. We hope customers will be just as excited to tuck into a slice of freshly baked focaccia as they were a slice of our sourdough pizza.”