The Crooked Mile owner Sean Murray

A NEW bar bistro has reopened in Belfast just in time for Christmas after A £300,000 investment and refurbishment.

The Crooked Mile in Colinglen Road is run by husband and wife team Sean and Jackie Murray.

Formerly the Farmers Inn, the 52-seat Belfast restaurant now employs 15 staff, eight of which are full time.

The kitchen is headed up by chef Brian McCool whose has designed a fresh menu of seafoods and meat from locally sourced producers.

The couple said they are delighted to be open before Christmas and have been  encouraged by the positive feedback.

“The pleasure of seeing this place open again and welcoming people from  across all the communities in greater Belfast and beyond is uplifting,” said Mr  Murray.

Mr Murray already runs two city centre bar restaurants – the Fountain in  Fountain Lane and the Deer’s Head in North Street – and was general manager of  the Harbour Plaza Grand in Hong Kong.

Added Sean: ““When I came it was full of old Irish signs but I decided to give it more of a neutral touch with some lovely old Belfast photographs.

“I just can’t afford to let religion or politics impact on the business . . . I’ve created a place where I hope everyone can feel welcome.”