A FORMER Premier League winner is launching his first ever bar and restaurant in the heart of his hometown.
The ex-footballer has found a new passion project following his early retirement.
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Former Leicester City and Manchester United player Danny Simpson, 38, has traded football boots for a kitchen apron.
Danny has joined forces with bar entrepreneur Damien Matto who famously ran celebhaunt venue The Bijou Club in Salford for ten years before COVID forced its closure.
Danny frequented the prominent establishment during his football days, and leapt at the chance to work with Damien.
Together, the pair are opening a brand new restaurant called SDK with a Mediterranean-inspired menu.
Danny told Manchester Evening: “It’s like a full circle moment really for me. I used to go to Damien’s venues, maybe 20 years ago, I used to go out most Saturdays there, I’ve had my birthday parties there, I’ve known Damien a long time.
“When Damien mentioned what he wanted to do, it might sound funny, but I only knew a couple of things to do, that was play football and go out with the lads, so I thought why not go on the other side now? To be a part of a nice restaurant where my old friends, teammates, new friends and family can all go to.”
The historic railway arches, where the Bijou was once located, have been transformed into a hub for four ventures from Damien.
SDK will be the first business to open on the refurbished site, offering a high-quality dining experience for an affordable price.
Images show the restaurant’s sleek design and romantic ambiance with vibes of the Mediterranean with whites, creams and blues.
SDK will feature a sharing plates concept with some dishes selling for as low as £5.
With wagyu steak for only £36 and truffle fries at £6, the owners put an emphasis on “affordable luxury” and “a great value for money“.
Danny said: “That’s the biggest thing for me. The way the country is at the moment, things are really expensive, so we’re aiming to be a lot cheaper than other places in Manchester, you will get a lot more from your money on the food and drinks here.”
Damied added: “Despite being city centre Manchester we have a fair pricing policy, I think people will be shocked at the prices.”
From Thursday through Sunday, SDK will be open “until late” with entertainment scheduled during the late evening.
The patio area outside, with “light and airy” interiors, will also be used in the summer.
The modern restaurant is estimated to accommodate up to 350 people on one level.
SDK is scheduled to open its doors and welcome customers on Saturday, October 4.
