Tapas bar and restaurant hails ‘unbelievable’ first year

The team at world tapas bar and restaurant Compamigos are reflecting on a successful first year in business, filled with awards and five-star reviews.

The independent business, which serves a wide variety of tapas dishes especially created for sharing, first opened at Mercia Marina in November last year.

Named after the Spanish ‘compartir con amigos’ or share with friends, it was created in the former Boardwalk Bar & Restaurant.

Since opening, the business has hit the floor running, earning industry recognition and plaudits from the public.

Earlier this year, Compamigos won the Muddy Stilettos Award – Best Casual Dining Spot in Nottinghamshire & Derbyshire and the Prestige Business Award – Best Tapas Bar in Central England.

The Muddy Stilettos Awards are a prestigious, reader-voted celebration of the very best independent businesses across the UK.

The restaurant was also a finalist in the Best Newcomer category at this year’s Marketing Derby Food and Drink Awards.

And over the past 12 months, Compamigos has garnered almost 500 five-star reviews across Google and TripAdvisor.

It has also built a thriving community through weekly craft gatherings, monthly quizzes, and open mic nights, alongside countless special events, including tribute nights, comedy clubs and live music evenings.

General manager Richard Petitjean said: “It’s been an unbelievable first year.

“What started as a dream to create a place where people come together over great food, drinks and laughter has grown into something really special.

“We’re so grateful to our team, our customers, and the Mercia Marina community who have supported us every step of the way.”

To celebrate its first anniversary, Compamigos will be hosting a 1st Birthday Celebration Night on Thursday 28 November.

It will feature live music from Errol Cole, as well as a birthday toast with complimentary fizz.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.