Wild Tots owner shares details on new restaurant and play area

Wild Tots, a restaurant and play area, will soon be launching at Barons Quay, taking over the unit previously home to Sticky Paws.

At the helm will be Carl Fraenkl-Rietti, who has two decades of experience in the hospitality industry.

With three young children of his own, Carl felt it was the perfect time to embark on such a venture.

He said: “When the Sticky Paws venue became available, I knew it was the perfect place to combine all the aspects of my life, parenting and hospitality.

“Northwich is the perfect place for a venue like this too with so many young families. It has been very moving how welcoming the community has been already.”

Carl, 35, added:  “My first and second child were lockdown babies which really hit home to me that community-driven places where kids can adventure, play and interact with other children are so important for their development and wellbeing.

“Parenting is hard too. Having that safe place to talk with other parents about experiences is great for the mind. And why not have a great meal while you’re doing it?”

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Sticky Paws closed down in May 2022 (Image: Newsquest)

Sticky Paws opened at Barons Quay in March 2020 but was only able to trade for one week before the first of three national lockdowns.

Eventually the effects of the pandemic proved too much and Sticky Paws closed down in May 2022.

This summer The Northern Lights Group announced that Wild Tots would be opening at the site, while Gasworks Immersive would take over the former Barons Quay Social.

READ MORE: What to expect from town's new bar including games and opening date

Gasworks Immersive will also be opening at Barons Quay (Image: Dockyard)

Carl says they are busy making changes to the venue and are hoping to open at the end of September.

He said: “There were a lot of aspects of the original site we really liked.

“However, we have put a lot of work and investment into making it safer and more inclusive to all age groups.

“Along with planning several group sessions, from messy play to baby sign, we will have something for everyone.

“For the food side expect a fresh, healthy, take for both kids and parents - an exciting menu of new flavours for kids to try, and familiar favourites.

“Our aim is to introduce and promote healthy eating for all ages, whilst keeping it family friendly and of course those little indulgent treats we all need now and again.”

Carl added: “We are extremely excited on getting going, we can’t wait to open our doors to you all and see all the smiles on everyone’s faces adventuring around the play area.”