Pantin Hotels, the group behind Leeds boutique hotel, The Ellington, is to open a Floridita bar and restaurant in the city later this month.

The name has been licensed from the owner of the Floridita restaurant in Soho, D&D London, and will be a similar concept to the original, which was modelled on the famous El Floridita in Havana.

The 120-seat restaurant will occupy the first floor, while the ground floor will host a cocktail bar. The menu has been created by The Ellington’s executive chef Robert Bates, and will offer contemporary dishes.

Bands, flown in direct from Havana, provide live authentic Cuban music each night, followed by music by a resident DJ.

David Pantin, chief executive of Pantin Hotels said: “I think Leeds is the perfect city to launch Floridita outside London. The distinctive mix of authentic live Cuban music, modern cuisine, and classic cocktails will offer a unique experience for all in the city.”

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By Gemma Sharkey

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