Clearbell Property Partners II LP (Clearbell), a fund managed by private equity real estate fund management and advisory business Clearbell Capital LLP, has completed two new lettings at The Riverwalk in Durham as part of its strategy to bring curated and exciting social dining experiences to visitors.

Veeno, the authentic Italian wine bar chain, has taken a 15-year lease on a new 3,130 sq ft space. This marks the latest step in the brand’s growth, adding a sixth location to its portfolio across the UK, which includes bars in Leeds, Bristol and Edinburgh.

Known for offering a true Italian aperitivo experience, Veeno’s menu features a wide selection of wines sourced from the family-owned Caruso & Minini vineyard in Sicily, alongside traditional Italian cured meats, cheeses, fresh pasta and pizza. The new venue, anticipated to open in August will also host wine-tasting events, offering customers an immersive social dining experience.  

After over 2 years in Walkergate, Rio Brazilian Steakhouse are well established within the city and will be moving to a new prime 7,663 sq ft restaurant at The Riverwalk. Offering almost twice the seating capacity alongside stunning riverside and Cathedral views.

Rio will take visitors on a culinary journey into the Tijuca Urban Forest that surrounds Rio de Janeiro, with planted walls and flowered ceilings towering high above a traditional Brazilian Churrasco dining experience. Their specially trained Gaucho Chefs are on hand to serve exquisite meat cuts that are continuously carved at the table in an authentic Rodizio style.

Overlooking the River Wear with views of Durham’s historic cathedral and castle, Riverwalk is a vibrant retail and leisure destination home to a mix of national and independent brands. Clearbell has managed the centre since acquiring the 250,000 sq ft site in 2014.  

Veeno and Rio will join a number of well-known restaurants at Durham’s Riverwalk, including Zaap Thai, Cosy Club, El Pincho tapas bar, and Turtle Bay. 

Welcoming both Veeno and Rio to Riverwalk is a significant milestone in the evolution of the centre. Their unique take on social dining will bring something new and exciting, adding a greater variety and choice for our visitors. These new openings will not only enhance the customer experience but also represent a real vote of confidence in Durham’s vibrant hospitality scene. They complement the growing mix of independent and national brands we have curated at Riverwalk, reinforcing its position as a dynamic destination in the city.”

Toby Saul, Director at Clearbell Capital

Dan Lewis, Veeno, added:

We’re excited to open our new location at Riverwalk in Durham and to work with Clearbell on this journey. This space will allow us to bring the taste of Italy to the heart of Durham, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere where people can gather and share quality dining experiences.”

Howard Ecclestone, Rio’s, added:

Durham is a city full of culture and vibrancy, and Riverwalk offers the perfect setting for our next chapter. We look forward to introducing visitors to our traditional Brazilian Churrasco dining experience.”

Adam Hall, Director, Tandem Property Asset Management:

As property managers of The Riverwalk, Durham we delighted to welcome Veeno Wine Bar & Kitchen and Rio Brazilian Steakhouse. It’s great to see that, despite the challenging economic conditions, demand for space on The Riverwalk remains strong from high quality restauranteurs.”

Richard Simmons, RSA acted for Veeno, Pudney Shuttleworth and Rawstron Johnson act for Clearbell at The Riverwalk.