Art gallery restaurant gets new owners

Experienced restaurateurs Madlen and Wayne Shaw are taking over the reins of Christchurch Art Gallery restaurant, Universo.

The couple, who previously owned central city cafe, Therapy, and The Pedal Pusher gastropubs in Addington and Rolleston, are taking over the restaurant from former owner Tony Astle.

Madlen and Wayne Shaw have big plans for Universo.

The Shaws say they are delighted to be starting their new venture and have been overwhelmed by the support they have received.

"Christchurch City Council and the team at the Art Gallery have been right behind us,'' Madlen Shaw says. "We're also thrilled that so many of the original Universo staff have stayed to work with us, including head chef Mark Wilson.''

The Shaws are planning a number of changes at Universo, including introducing a new seasonal menu.

"We'll be keeping a few of the restaurant's signature dishes but introducing more fresh, seasonal  produce from the Canterbury region,'' Madlen Shaw says. 

"We will also be opening at 9am, seven days a week, so that people can come for breakfast, introducing live music during weekends, and offering cabinet food so that you can buy a sandwich or salad to go. At the moment, there are lots of locals visiting the gallery during the school holidays and the cruise season is about to start. We want to have plenty to offer these casual diners during the day, as well as a more upmarket experience for people at night.''

Christchurch City Council General Manager Citizens and Community, Mary Richardson, says Universo has become an important part of the gallery experience.

"We're excited to see this continue under Madlen and Wayne's ownership, as they respond to the need of our daily gallery-goers. 

"They bring with them a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry and will complement what our gallery has to offer. Tony Astle did a great job in creating a unique hospitality environment at Universo and we wish him all the best,'' Ms Richardson says.