Big Move for Isabel’s: Burton Favourite Set to Expand Across the Road

One of Burton’s best-loved dining spots, Isabel’s, is preparing for a big new chapter - just a few steps away from its current home. The popular venue, known for its refined food, crafted cocktails, and cosy atmosphere, is moving into a larger space just across the road in early 2026.

 

Owner and DJ Nathan Dawe made the announcement during Sunday’s Christmas Lights Switch-On in the Market Place, confirming what many fans had suspected for weeks. 

“Well, the rumours are true. I think a lot of people have heard that Isabel's might be moving to a bigger venue. And I can confirm that is true. That is thanks to all you guys,” Nathan told the crowd.

 

“Three years ago, I stood on this stage and announced the opening of Isabel's. And it was my first ever time doing it. And admittedly, it was a bit too small. So, I'm sick of hearing the feedback of a beautiful venue, but a bit too small. So now, we are much bigger. We've bought the locomotive building, which a lot of you might be familiar with. It's a lot bigger. We now have a garden. And we're going to be open seven days a week.”

 

The new venue will be in the Locomotive, which locals may remember in its past lives as a pub, an Indian restaurant, and perhaps most famously, a nightclub - once going by the name Flares. It's a spot packed with local memories, and soon, it’ll be home to Isabel’s next era.

 

The move will allow Isabel’s to introduce a broader offering, while keeping the heart of what’s made it so popular.

“We're tweaking the menu as well,” Nathan added. “We're going to be doing pizzas, burgers, pies. We're going to be a lot more family friendly throughout the week as well. As well as keeping the high-end weekend offering.”

 

Isabel’s new home will feature a garden (a first for the restaurant), dedicated work-friendly daytime spaces, family-friendly breakfasts, a £10 lunch menu, Sunday roasts, and all-day dining - all served up with their trademark warm hospitality. And yes, they'll be open every day of the week.

 

Nathan also gave a nod to Burton’s buzzing hospitality scene, which has seen a burst of energy in recent months.

“For me to be able to expand is amazing for me and for the town. Because I think with the latest news from the Bass Towers and new additions to hospitality, such as the Long Hop and the amazing place on the corner, The Hangar, that I'm in at the minute playing darts every night, as well as the new Isabel's.
So, next year is an amazing thing for the town and the hospitality. Because I do think this town's unreal, especially with all the accommodation that's being filled. I'm just really, really happy to be a part of it.”

 

Isabel’s has built a loyal following since it opened in 2020, and this next step looks set to offer even more for regulars and first-timers alike.

 

Whether you're a fan of their elegant weekend menus or just fancy popping in for a coffee and a pie on a Tuesday, the new-look Isabel’s is shaping up to be a true all-day destination for Burton.

 

Stay tuned for opening dates - and maybe dust off your old Flares stories while you're at it.