Award-winning Bristol brand Gurt Wings is opening its first-ever restaurant at Wapping Wharf. The local name in the foodie scene, which many will know from its pitches and appearances at festivals like Wing Fest, is opening its new venue on Friday.
It will serve chicken wings alongside beers, ciders and cocktails, with plans to expand the menu to include fried chicken burgers, a brunch offering, and ‘wing challenges’.
Gurt Wings began as a passion project for founder Gurty (James Mitchell) in February 2017. He had spent years importing food from the US, developing a love for ‘proper’ fried chicken and wings.
Frustrated by what he describes as a lack of high-quality options in the UK, he took to making his own before setting up a gazebo and fryer to trade part-time. After their first event at Moor Brewery in Bristol, Gurty and his wife Lisa-Marie juggled their full-time jobs with running Gurt Wings during evenings and weekends.
Demand quickly grew and the took the leap to go full-time, expanding their home set up to become a dedicated prep kitchen and food truck operation. Seven years on, the team says they are now ready to take the next step into their permanent home at Wapping Wharf.
Gurty said: “We can’t wait to bring Gurt Wings to Bristol seven days a week, with a fixed home at Wapping Wharf and delivery options available for the first time. Bristol is where it all began, and the support we’ve had here has been incredible. Now, we finally have a permanent spot to serve up our award-winning chicken to the city we love!”
On why Wapping Wharf was the perfect location, he added: “We love the community feel here, surrounded by so many brilliant independent brands. The shipping container setup fits perfectly with our street food roots, and it’s a great match for our Reading site too.”
Speaking about the newest addition to the Wapping Wharf community, Stuart Hatton, managing director at Umberslade said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Gurt Wings to Wapping Wharf and know their award-winning fried chicken will be a fantastic addition to our community. Their passion for great food and bold flavours is sure to make them a firm favourite!”
You’ll be able to find Gurt Wings at their new home at Unit 28, Cargo 2, Wapping Wharf, Museum Street, BS1 6ZA.