May 3, 2011 10.41 am This story is over 154 months old

New burger eatery to open on Brayford Pool

Competition: Handmade burger co. will open a 120-seat restaurant on the Brayford Waterfront, creating 40 jobs.

A new restaurant chain will open on the Brayford Waterfront, joining the likes of Nando’s, Chimichanga and Prezzo.

Handmade burger co. will open a 120-seat restaurant next to Nando’s, where Tootsies once stood, creating around 40 jobs.

The family owned company is known for its national chain of handmade burger restaurants, which make over 40 different burger varieties.

Handmade burger co’s eatery in Lincoln will be the company’s 10th outlet. The let of the Brayford unit was agreed by chartered surveyors Hodgson Elkington.

Matthew Johnson of Hodgson Elkington said: “We very much welcome Handmade burger Co. to the city and the new jobs that will be created, which will add a boost to the local economy.

“The restaurant formerly occupied by Tootsies, is in a prominent position, in one of Lincoln’s prime leisure destinations, being close to the University Campus and the multi-storey Lucy Tower public car park.”

The Tootsies on the Brayford Waterfront closed in late 2009 after the 21-restaurant chain has been put into administration.

Handmade burger co. owner Chris Sargeant said: “We are delighted to be moving into Lincoln and expect the restaurant opening will create up to 40 jobs, with the new restaurant team training together for six weeks before opening to ensure that handmade burger Co. is the perfect destination for a quick bite, a get together with friends or a meal out for the whole family.

“We pride ourselves on delivering quality food and award-winning service and hope that diners in Lincoln will love the fresh food we make and the great variety we offer.”

Handmade burger Co. first opened a restaurant in 2005, and sources its food from British farmers. Sargeant regularly visits the farmers.

At present, there are no specifically burger-orientated restaurants on the Brayford, but Harvester, The Square Sail, Ask and Nando’s have burgers on their menus.

Ultimate Burger used to be in one of the unit before Prezzo moved in, and also focused on various burgers, however closed after less than two years trading.

Zizzi will also open a restaurant along the Brayford, serving Italian dishes.