A NEW Italian wine bar has opened in Bury offering specially imported foods and wines.

Basil + Lily opened its doors last week after a soft launch for friends and family.

Owner Anna Moss, aged 31, has gutted the former coffee shop and deli in Bury New Road and created a modern open space.

The old ceiling tiles have been ripped out to reveal an ornate, moulded ceiling, which has been daringly painted gold and navy.

The rectangular room holds a number of small tables down each side and window ledge seating with high stools.

In one corner the small bar serves a variety of drinks, including wines, Prosecco and Limoncello.

Basil + Lily has Peroni on tap as well as a monthly guest craft ale, the rest of the beers are also craft and mostly hail from northern Italy.

South African bar manager, Ross Ekman, told The Bury Times he and Mrs Moss clicked when they first met and said he loved her ideas for the bar.

The food is mostly cold platters of meats and cheeses including wild boar prosciutto, n’duja and smoked burrata with some toasted panini and salad options.

The wine bar is named after Basil, her paternal grandfather and Lily, her maternal grandmother, who were both born and raised in Prestwich.

Basil + Lily is the culmination of a long held dream for Mrs Moss.

The first full day for the Tuscan inspired venue was Friday and Mrs Moss said the opening night was a huge success. She said: “It was brilliant, it was so busy Friday and Saturday.

“We had a really nice crowd and all the food, beers and wine went down really well.

“It’s been an overwhelming experience and the support and feedback we have had from people has been brilliant.

“People were asking questions about the wines and food because they’re very authentic and it’s been nice to educate people.”