A BRAND new tapas and cocktail bar opened in Bridgwater on Monday, October 7.

La Kasia Tapas and Cocktails is located in the town’s Northgate Yard, which is one of the projects along the route of the new Celebration Mile. The new restaurant joins other businesses in the precinct, including Scott Cinemas, Allstars Sports Bowl, and Nando’s.

Local restaurateur, Erdal Sahin, is behind the new restaurant and also runs The Green Olive and Wild Rocket in Bridgwater. He said: “In 2023, we signed the lease and, on the May 15 this year, work commenced to make La Kasia Tapas a reality. We offer a cosy, comfortable place for daily tapas and a large range of cocktails.”

Inside, the venue has been hand crafted by local contractors and suppliers, including Idris Ay, who will run Bridgwater’s newest bar. Erdal said: “Idris has done much of the work here by hand, and I thank him for all his fantastic construction work. I also want to thank Michelle Fry from Somerset Council, who has helped us secure the unit.

“La Kasia is named after my better half, Kasia, who is behind the success of this business. She’s designed the logo and has been so helpful.”

La Kasia Tapas employs around 20 people between the ages of 16-55, all of whom are from the local community. Erdal said: “I love the people of Bridgwater, they are so kind and supportive. It’s great to support lots of young people, who have all had three weeks of training.

“I’ve operated businesses professionally since I was 16 years old. I feel proud of what I’ve achieved, as it’s something I have always wanted to do in Bridgwater. There’s something for everyone.”

La Kasia Tapas is open daily from 11am until 11pm, and until 1am at the weekend. To find out more, phone: 01278 574890.