An 80s cocktail bar is coming to Awesome Franks in West Jesmond

Awesome Franks, the gourmet sandwich cafe and deli at West Jesmond Metro station, is adding an 1980s-themed cocktail bar in the next-door retail unit, Chronicle Live reports. Founder Alex Walker, who co-founded Scream for Pizza, also plans to turn the former Station Master's Room into a grassroots music and events space.

Awesome Franks opened in the old Richard Granger Wines site and mixes sandwiches with a delicatessen and a platform for local independents, from florists to artisan producers. Walker used NPIF II funding managed by NEL Fund Managers and a £25,000 Start Up Loan via the British Business Bank to gut and rewire the building. The team has grown from three people to ten.

What is next - A neighbouring 80s cocktail bar as the evening offer beside the cafe - A third space for live music, community events, student nights and themed evenings - A longer-term aim to be a hub for local creatives and groups

Walker said the vision was always bigger than a cafe. Opening dates for the bar and music room have not been pinned down yet, but West Jesmond is about to get a lot more to do after dark.