Restaurant and bar visited by Alex Ferguson to be taken over by pop star
A popular Cheshire restaurant and bar, frequented by celebrities and footballers, has been taken over by a former pop star who once topped the charts with his Manchester band.
Riva, located in the heart of Hale village, is renowned for its live music and extensive menu, which includes sandwiches, brunch dishes, pies, and Sunday roasts featuring locally-sourced meats and vegetables.
The venue has now been acquired by local investment firm Dunham Massey Investment Group, which plans to continue operating the space as it is, with enhancements to entertainment and opening hours.
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Recardo Patrick, shareholder and chairman of the investment company, is perhaps better known to many as Rikki Patrick, the former lead singer of Manchester band Sweet Sensation.
The band scored a number one hit in 1975 with 'Sad Sweet Dreamer', which also reached number 14 in the US charts. A year before they disbanded in 1978, the band unsuccessfully attempted to represent the UK at the Eurovision Song Contest, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Since transitioning into investment, Recardo has been involved in several venues and multi-million pound property deals, including Knutsford's Cheshire House and new nightlife venue AMOK, on the island of Palma De Mallorca, which opened its first phase in summer 2024.
Riva, the Hale-based restaurant, will retain its Michelin-trained Head Chef, Daniel Kelly, who will continue to create the venue's 'iconic' Roasts and dishes. However, the establishment will now open seven days a week, up from its previous five-day schedule.
Additionally, a new artisan breakfast menu is on the cards, along with enhancements to the live entertainment offering.
The contemporary British eatery, which accommodates around 65 diners, first opened its doors in February 2019. The owners report that it has been a hit with footballers and reality TV personalities, with Alex Ferguson, Harry Maguire, Steve Bruce, Jesse Lingard, Jack Grealish and Luke Shaw all said to have visited over the years.
Recardo, Shareholder and Chairman of Dunham Massey Investment Group, expressed his excitement about the acquisition of Riva, stating: "The acquisition of Riva is the perfect way to begin 2025, as we've seen hospitality struggle throughout the past year, both regionally and nationally," and "With the foray of restaurant closures that have happened recently, this comes as good news for the hospitality industry in Greater Manchester."
He further added: "This next phase of Riva will be bigger and better than ever before. It is a big goal of ours to maintain the essence of Riva, that so many guests have loved. As a local to Hale, I've been a regular customer of Riva's over the years so this is an especially exciting project to take on."
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