Aberdeen’s vibrant hospitality scene is set to welcome a new entrant, Byte, a pizza and brunch restaurant slated to open on Belmont Street in early October. The new venture is backed by prominent Aberdeen hospitality operator Watermelon Catering, helmed by Martin McAuley, and will occupy the premises previously home to Dough and Co doughnut shop.
Byte will offer an all-day brunch menu, transitioning to Italian pizzas in the evenings. The establishment also plans to serve its own brand of “great tasting” coffee, according to the operators. The new restaurant will move into the unit that has been vacant since January, following Dough and Co’s closure after a three-year tenure on Belmont Street.
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The timing of Byte’s launch is strategically aligned with the ongoing revitalisation of Aberdeen’s city centre. Watermelon Catering highlighted the opportune moment for expansion, stating it comes as “Aberdeen’s regeneration project reaching it’s climax.” This sentiment is bolstered by the expected completion of the Union Street roadworks, which have faced delays, “in the next few months,” signifying a potential improvement in footfall and accessibility for city centre businesses.
The property, which was recently listed on the market for £230,000, is set for a substantial transformation. Watermelon Catering intends to “invest in an extensive refurbishment” to develop the venue across two floors. Beyond its core food offerings, Byte aims to create a dynamic experience for patrons, featuring “boozy brunch” events and “special events” within its “new and cosy dining areas.” Additionally, the restaurant plans to innovate customer service by collaborating with neighbouring Belmont Street bars to implement QR code ordering for pizza deliveries to tables. The grand opening event is expected to include live DJs and giveaways.
Watermelon Catering, under the leadership of Martin McAuley, has established itself as a significant player in Aberdeen’s food and drink sector. The group’s existing portfolio includes several well-regarded establishments across the Granite City and wider Aberdeenshire, such as The Pier cafe at the beach, Corner Tree coffee shop in the west end, Resting Brunch Face cafe in the Trinity Centre, Cafe Ahoy on Beach Boulevard, Forest Cafe near Midmar, and Bridge House Cafe in Ballater. This expansion with Byte demonstrates the group’s continued confidence and investment in Aberdeen’s evolving hospitality landscape.
