Frankie's Bar & Grill to launch in Ireland

Hospitality group Fitzers has announced its plans to bring the Frankie's Bar & Grill restaurant franchise to Ireland. After purchasing the rights to operate the restaurant franchise in Ireland, Fitzers is to invest five million in the new venture and plans to open a Frankie's Bar and Grill restaurant in Dublin next September, creating 30 jobs.

Director of Fitzers Geraldine Fitzpatrick says: 'Frankie's, as a vibrant and affordable Italian Bar and Grill, will thrive in Dublin and enable us to explore new markets. We are delighted to be associated with Marco Pierre White, whose expertise will strengthen the Fitzers brand, giving us the competitive edge in our sector.'

Although the street for the Dublin-based restaurant has not been specified, Fitzers has confirmed that the restaurant will seat up to 150 customers and will have a lunch and dinner menu.

Celebrity chef Marco Pierre White and jockey Frankie Detorri founded Frankie's Bar & Grill restaurant franchise in London in 2004. The restaurant chain is located in Knightsbridge, Putney, Chiswick and Selfridges and can be found in Dubai and Shanghai.

Fitzers was established in 1980 and runs four restaurants around Dublin, with two under the same brand operating on Dawson Street and Temple Street, one on Chatham Street and a café in the National Gallery of Ireland on Clare Street. Fitzers also operates the Hard Rock Café on Fleet Street in partnership with the owners of Leisureplex entertainment centres, Colum and Ciaran Butler.