Morio Lounge launched on Saturday, July 11 at Nell’s Point on Barry Island, occupying a transformed building that once served as a public toilet block.
The venue is part of the growing Lounge chain and marks the latest addition to Barry Island’s hospitality offering, joining venues already familiar to nearby communities such as Ocho Lounge in Penarth.
Its opening had been eagerly anticipated by residents, though delays in utility installation meant the project was pushed back several times, most recently from a planned date of June 3.
Laura, an assistant manager at the new venue, said: “We’re just really pleased to be open for the local community.
“This weekend was really busy but all of our guests were so patient and so pleased.
“What I like about Loungers is that they’re invested in their local community – you don’t see that in other places.
“This is a great addition to the Island and we’re welcoming all the other businesses to come in because we want to support them. If we all support each other, we will have a better Island.”
The venue has created around 30 new jobs in the area and has completely reimagined the once-abandoned site.
Loungers’ design team has given the building a vibrant makeover with patterned wallpapers, vintage sofas, colourful tiling, and eye-catching murals.
Multiple dining areas now offer a mix of statement lighting and comfortable seating to create what the brand calls a “home away from home” atmosphere.
Open from 9am to 11pm Sunday to Thursday and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, Morio Lounge serves a broad menu throughout the day.
The menu includes brunch options, burgers, tacos, toasties, salads, fried chicken, and noodles, with dedicated vegan and gluten-free choices to cater for different dietary needs.
Loungers’ tapas, drinks, and cocktail menus are also featured, for returning fans of the brand.
The lounge is designed to appeal to a wide range of customers – whether for a quick coffee after the school run, a casual meal with friends, a family outing, or a relaxed night out.
Regular promotions include Tapas Tuesday, where guests can enjoy three tapas dishes plus a glass of house wine, pint of Cruzcampo or soft drink for £14.50, and Cheeky Mondays, where guests can order any burger, main or salad and receive a complimentary house wine, Cruzcampo, soft drink or pudding.
The daily Cocktail Club runs from 5pm until closing time.
In keeping with the brand’s family-friendly ethos, Morio Lounge provides highchairs, a children’s menu, changing facilities, and a selection of games, books, and colouring activities.
The name “Morio,” meaning “sea,” is a nod to its coastal setting. Those who wish to take in the sun can do so in their outdoor seating areas, one directly outside the front entrance surrounded by plants, and the other on a newly formed patio area that allows guests to take in views of Whitmore Bay.
Loungers currently operates more than 250 venues across England and Wales under the Lounge, Cosy Club, and Brightside brands.
While some residents may have hoped for a different use of the former toilet block, Morio Lounge has already been warmly received by the public.
With its extended hours, welcoming atmosphere, and diverse menu, the venue promises to become a lively and inclusive hub on the Barry Island seafront.
