A Newtownards restaurant has been acquired by one of Northern Ireland’s leading hospitality companies.

The Foxes Den, located on Jubilee Road, has been acquired by Nightcap Event Group.

Led by Declan Holmes and Dean McFarland, Nightcap Event Group is "seeking to build on The Foxes Den’s exceptional reputation in the locality, and maximise its potential further, by utilising its expertise to offer bespoke evening and family friendly experiences in the fully licenced restaurant".

From Friday, December 1, the opening hours will also be extended to accommodate the launch of The Foxes Den’s Christmas menu. Guests can enjoy a three course meal and drink for £36, or choose from the a la carte menu, every Thursday to Saturday evening throughout December.

There's also the launch of ‘Santa Sundays’, which run on December 3, 10 and 17. Santa Sundays will offer a fun and festive dining experience, with kids receiving hot chocolate and a gift from Santa himself during their visit.

A spokesperson said: "The Foxes Den has been a firm favourite amongst the local community since it first opened in 2020. Offering an extensive delicatessen and restaurant menu, it utilises locally sourced food to create fresh, homemade dishes, which are all expertly produced by its experienced in-house team. The restaurant boasts a relaxed and comfortable setting with modem décor and can accommodate up to 100 people."

Since the takeover in September, The Foxes Den has hosted its first ‘Evening at the Den’ event, a tasting experience comprising of a four-course fine dining food offering with an accompanying cocktail menu.

Declan Holmes and Dean McFarland, founders of Nightcap Event Group

Managing Director of Nightcap Event Group, Declan Holmes, spoke about the acquisition. He said: “We are delighted to have added The Foxes Den in Newtownards to our growing business portfolio.

"We are in a fortunate position in that the restaurant has already established itself as a thriving business in the locality, and that’s something we want to continue to build on moving forward. We want to utilise our experience in the hospitality sector by enhancing our offering to customers, whilst continuing to offer value for money, high-quality food and exceptional service.

"We look forward to welcoming guests, old and new, to The Den over the festive period, and in the months ahead.”

A spokesperson added: "Nightcap Event Group, which recently celebrated its tenth successful year in business, has vast experience in the hospitality industry, beginning as a mobile bartending service for private and business clients, before expanding its offering to include bartending services for festivals, large corporate events and weddings, event management and organisation, and consultancy services."