Rotherham restaurants closing, changes planned

Two popular restaurants in Rotherham within yards of each other have both announced that changes are on the menu.

Elliott Vaughan opened his 1920s themed restaurant, The Garrison at Wickersley, in 2020 after securing financial help from alternative lending provider Finance For Enterprise. However, within less than seven days, his plans were thrown into jeopardy when, along with the whole of South Yorkshire’s hospitality sector, the restaurant was ordered to close as South Yorkshire entered into Tier 3 lockdown.

The focus is on British inspired local produce plus unique cocktails and proper beers. Drawing on inspiration from the hit TV show Peaky Blinders, whilst giving a nod to the golden age of jazz and the roaring Twenties, Elliott re-imagined the former tearoom, transforming it into a cosy, atmospheric dining experience.

An update on social media explained that: "The Garrison as you know it will be closing. We will be undergoing a small transformation, and our restaurant will be changing its identity. More details of what will be following will be announced in the next few months."

The premises benefits from planning permission for a change of use from restaurant into a micropub and a decking area to front of the property.

In his post, Vaughan said that the changes are "as exciting as it is upsetting" but added that "this is not a goodbye, but a see you later."

At The Olive Lounge, also in Wickersley, operators have also announced their closure for a full refurbishment and have hinted that "something new is coming soon."

The venue serves authentic homemade tapas with quality wines, beers and original cocktails and the W Bars Team have announced at the end of 2025 that they had taken over The Olive Lounge.

The team are part of the same group that operates the W Italian Restaurant on Bawtry Road.

A post on social media states: "After more than ten years, The Olive Lounge is getting ready to close this chapter.

"Our final day will be 13th September, so if you’ve shared a drink, a meal, a celebration or a night out with us over the years, come and see us one last time before we close the doors.

"Thank you to everyone who has supported The Olive Lounge and been part of the journey. A full refurbishment is coming next, along with a completely new look, style and experience.

"Something new is coming soon."

The Garrison facebook page
The Olive Lounge website

Images: The Garrison / Google Maps / facebook