http://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/500-...urant-Skidby/story-22815829-detail/story.html A RESTAURANT in Skidby is launching a £500,000 expansion programme to lure in more corporate clients. The Millhouse Restaurant and Bar is set to get an extended dining area to seat 100 more guests, along with a second-floor private dining room with bar and roof terrace. It builds on a £250,000 invested by owner Mark Ciuffetelli last year for a cocktail bar. Work is due to start next month and should be completed in time for Christmas. Mr Ciuffetelli said: "We've invested heavily over the past several years and it's paid dividends on the business. "It's opened a lot of new channels for us. "We're doing a lot of weddings and corporate events. We're doing a lot of business conferences." The development will also feature landscaped gardens and an outdoor dining area. The owner has run his business since 1993. He has seen bookings improve dramatically as the recession faded away. Mr Ciuffetelli said: "In the past two or three years, we've seen a massive upturn. "Last year was one of our best years yet and this year looks like it's even better. "Bookings are thick and fast for the next two years." With Hull set to become UK City of Culture in 2017, he is seeking to make sure the restaurant is ready for an influx of new customers. High-end rural restaurants are likely to do well, Mr Ciuffetelli believes. He said: "UK City of Culture is a big thing. When all these people come in, they're going to go to surrounding areas and villages. "We want to be proud of what we've got round here and show it off. "There's competition but it's healthy competition. "It keeps you on your toes." The restaurant already employs 37 staff. Its latest expansion is an attempt to keep growing sustainably. Mr Ciuffetelli said: "We know there's demand for extra seating in the existing restaurant but we also wanted to create a plush private dining area that larger parties or corporate clients can have to themselves. "Like the main dining area, it will be a very luxurious and stylish space, where customers can dine, drink and enjoy the wonderful views in complete privacy. "This represents a significant investment for us, which shows how committed we are to developing and enhancing the range of services that we offer our customers." The restaurant will remain open while work is carried out.
