Jim, formerly of Ruban’s and Toto, opens The Bluebird in Stoke combining café culture with cocktail elegance.
Jim closed Ruban’s and Toto after sixteen years. The leases ended during the lockdown period. He then went to London and trained there, working events for big brands like Omega.
After four years in London, Jim returned home. He wanted to reignite his passions in Stoke. He had a tumor removed from his leg. Now, he runs The Bluebird, both a cafe and bar.
Jim lives in Penkhull. He lacked the budget to return to Newcastle. Stoke was cheaper and busier, he said, and he wanted to create something new, not repeat the past.
Kingsway is a good area for the new business. People are open-minded and creative around there. Locals support independent businesses like The Bluebird, and the experience has been positive so far.
Jim enjoys working with coffee again. He is happy to speak and socialize with people. His cocktails are special and elegant, not the usual, common drinks.
The Bluebird functions as a cafe on weekdays, opening at 9am and closing at 4pm. The venue becomes a cocktail bar on weekends at 5pm, staying open until 9:30pm on those days. He also sells bottled cocktails online, which can be found at thecocktaildrop.com.