The area’s food and leisure scene saw a mixture of new restaurants, fast food chains and entertainment venues opening their doors across Bromley, Catford, West Wickham and Bexleyheath.
From an authentic Italian restaurant hosting live music nights to a virtual golf venue complete with simulator bays and a clubhouse-style bar, here is a look at some of the latest businesses to launch in the area.
Smoky Boys, Bromley
BBQ and grill restaurant Smoky Boys opened at The Glades shopping centre in Bromley on June 15, taking over the former Ed’s Diner unit on the Restaurant Terrace.
The launch marked the brand’s 12th site, joining existing locations across London including Piccadilly, Wembley Boxpark and Brent Cross.
The restaurant serves a smokehouse-inspired menu featuring burgers, slow-cooked meats and loaded sides, alongside vegetarian options such as halloumi wraps and burgers.
The venue has been designed with a diner-style interior, complete with rustic wooden tables and colourful pink and blue décor.
Riva Morde, Catford (Image: Vincenzo De Giorgio)
Riva Morde, Catford
Riva Morde opened in Bromley Road in Catford in May, bringing authentic Italian cuisine and a programme of entertainment events to the area.
The business is owned by head chef Vincenzo De Giorgio, who has more than 40 years of experience in the hospitality industry and previously ran Bite Italian.
The menu features traditional Italian dishes reimagined through the chef’s own style, with highlights including carbonara cubes, pinsa romana and tiramisu served with gelato prepared tableside.
Alongside food, customers can enjoy Italian wines, beers and premium spirits. The venue also offers private events, group bookings and weekly live music nights.
BayHouse Golf & Social, West Wickham High Street
BayHouse Golf & Social, West Wickham High Street (Image: Alistair Harper )
BayHouse Golf & Social, opened its doors in June bringing a brand new leisure venue combining sport, entertainment and hospitality.
The business opened at 54-56 High Street, the former home of Avery Interiors.
The venue features five full-swing golf simulator bays, allowing players to take on famous courses including Pebble Beach and TPC Sawgrass.
Visitors can also enjoy coaching sessions, club fittings and interactive sports games including football, cricket and rugby simulations.
A clubhouse-style bar and lounge serves food, drinks and coffee, while the venue is also available for private hire and corporate events.
Wingstop, Broadway Shopping Centre, Bexleyheath
Chicken chain Wingstop opened its first Bexleyheath branch on June 10 at Broadway Shopping Centre, marking its 96th UK location.
The new restaurant spans more than 2,100 square feet and has seating for 72 diners.
The restaurant serves Wingstop’s menu of cooked-to-order chicken wings, boneless tenders, burgers and sides, available with a range of flavours including Hickory Smoked BBQ, Lemon Pepper and Atomic.
The opening forms part of the chain’s continued expansion across the UK and adds another dining option to the shopping centre’s food and drink offering.
