James Bradshaw has submitted an application to Vale of White Horse District Council, seeking permission to repurpose the vacant property at 8 Newbury Street—formerly Alexander’s Hair Studio—into a tapas-style restaurant called NAM Taco Bar. The proposed menu features an eclectic mix of tacos, including fillings such as crispy Peking mushrooms, meatballs, and smoked pâté, alongside salads like minced Thai larb and Dan-Dan slaw. The drinks offering will include soft drinks, beer, cider, wine, and creative cocktails such as a ‘new fashioned’ made from rum and curry leaf, and a ‘basilica’ gin and tonic.
The Council’s licensing acts panel has approved NAM Taco Bar’s operating hours, which are set from 8am to 11pm daily, with alcohol sales permitted from 8am until 10:30pm each day. However, concerns were raised by local resident Mike Waring, who expressed unease about potential issues such as takeaway patrons standing near his property, delivery drivers parking on double yellow lines, cooking smells, litter, empty glasses left on the window, and cigarette butts outside his home. He also highlighted the potential for noise disturbances, noting that dine-in customers might not leave until 11pm, even though alcohol sales would end earlier.
In response, Bradshaw emphasized that while the restaurant is named a “Taco Bar,” it is not intended to function as a drinking establishment. Instead, the primary focus will be on offering a tapas-style dining experience with food served as finger food. Bradshaw explained that wine would be the main alcoholic beverage offered, with no draft beer available, and reiterated that last orders would be taken at 10pm, ensuring a quieter close by 10:30pm. He also noted that in his experience of opening four other restaurants in residential areas, there has never been a single complaint to the police. According to Bradshaw, NAM Taco Bar’s operating model is similar to other establishments nearby, with peak activity typically waning by 9:30pm, even on weekends.
The Council’s approval marks a significant step toward transforming the vacant property at Newbury Street into a new dining destination. NAM Taco Bar, with its inventive menu and specialty cocktails, is set to offer a unique and vibrant experience for Wantage residents and visitors. Despite some local objections, Bradshaw remains optimistic about the positive contribution his restaurant will make to the community. Its location in the heart of Wantage has the potential to draw food enthusiasts and contribute to the local economy.
If you’re in Wantage and interested in exploring other local eateries or activities, be sure to browse our business directory for pubs, restaurants, and more! Or, if you’re a local business owner, create a free business profile to connect with the community.
