Restaurateurs to take over Sergi’s tapas bar in Spalding renaming it The Olive Tree

A new team has revealed plans for a popular town restaurant.

Business partners John Wilkins and Ben Howlin are looking forward to opening up The Olive Tree in Francis Street, Spalding — and bringing some exciting new flavours to the town.

They have purchased Sergi’s - which has played an important role in Spalding’s culinary scene since 2005 when it was opened by Karl Sergison.

After serving up tasty tapas for more than 20 years, Karl will be stepping away from the site in August after putting the business up for sale some time ago.

New owner Mr Wilkins said: “It was too good an opportunity to be missed.

“Sergi is hoping to retire out to Spain and we will take on the contract.

“He will be trading up until August and then we will take hold of the keys on August 1.”

Mr Wilkins has family links to the Red Lion Hotel in Spalding, where he currently bartends, and Mr Howling will relocate from his head chef’s position at The Bertie Arms in Uffington.

The pair have been exciting diners in recent days by previewing their future menus over social media.

Mr Wilkins said: “We have lots of exciting ideas.

“We like the tapas style and will have some available.

“We are aiming for a more classic date night restaurant with steak, fish or to order something special.”

The pair have taken on a five year lease and have been playing with the idea to take on their own business for a while.

Mr Wilkins said: “It was time to roll the dice and do something for ourselves.

“I am really lucky to have Ben on board to work with.

“With many years of experience in hospitality between us we think we know what it takes.”

Their ideas for the site range from having a fire pit for toasting marshmallows and a screen for outdoor cinema.

Mr Wilkins said: “The garden is what really sold me and we want to use it.

“It is our idea of the perfect venue.”

“I turn 45 in August so it will be a nice early birthday present.

Menus they have put on social media featuring pan roasted hake and 8oz beef ribeye are already whetting people’s appetite.

A comment from one social media user said: “Can’t wait to see what you guys do with the place.

“We’ve supported Sergi’s from pretty much the beginning and will certainly be supporting The Olive Tree.

“Hopefully when you’re up and running you might have some music nights too.”

Mr Wilkins added that they will be serving food and drink from Thursday to Sunday.

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