Team ‘thrilled’ by ‘incredible’ first quarter for new restaurant and luxury bar in Northampton
A team is “thrilled” by the “incredible” first quarter their new restaurant and luxury bar has had since opening at the heart of Northampton.
The historic Old Trinity Church building on Wellingborough Road was transformed into Opium, which opened to the public in August this year.
Located at 245 to 247 Wellingborough Road, the building underwent an extensive transformation to become a stylish new venue offering modern dining, bold flavours and crafted cocktails.
The building has a long history as a hospitality venue, having been converted from a church into a restaurant and bar in 1990. Most recently, it housed Turkish restaurant and cocktail bar Yakut Lounge, which closed earlier this year before the opening of Opium.
This new addition is the venture of husband and wife duo AJ Islam and Simran Ali, who were born and bred in Northampton and joined forces to open their first venue together.
“We’re thrilled that Opium Restaurant has had an incredible quarter,” said Simran. “We’ve been truly overwhelmed by the amount of positive feedback and memorable experiences our guests have shared with us.
“Customers have really highlighted how unique and creative our dishes and decor are, often commenting on how inviting and atmospheric our space feels.
“Our goal has always been to offer an unforgettable experience, and it’s heartening to see that reflected in the feedback we receive every day.”
The team is proud to have welcomed guests from across the country and even around the world, who compliment the venue’s hospitality and service.
Simran continued: “As a local business, we’re proud to be bringing more visitors and business into Northampton and helping the town stand out as a vibrant and exciting destination for food, entertainment and celebration.
“Our customers have especially enjoyed our live entertainment, from mesmerising fire dancers to talented magicians and more. Due to the fantastic response, we’re expanding our live entertainment lineup and continuing it throughout the festive period to make every visit even more memorable.”
Christmas Day bookings are now open, with a specially curated festive menu, and the team highly recommends booking early to avoid disappointment.
‘We wanted to be a go-to destination that puts Northampton on the map’
Talking to the Chronicle & Echo, Simran was asked why August was the ideal time for her and her husband AJ to launch their business in the town.
“Northampton truly comes to life in the summer, with its energy, footfall and community spirit,” she said. “We wanted to bring something new to the town.”
From conception to opening, Simran and AJ worked hard for eight months to bring their vision to life. This included perfecting the “carefully crafted interior with distinct personality” and their crystal chandelier being imported from Dubai.
“We offer a modern dining experience with bold flavours, exceptional service and expertly crafted cocktails,” said Simran. “It’s something special.”
The co-founder praised the “fantastic” first three months as “beyond expectations” and the venue has been consistently busy since then, with “overwhelmingly positive feedback” and a strong following who say this is what they were looking for in Northampton.
Loyal customers love the atmosphere, service and attention to detail, as well as the fact that Opium brings a “fresh, vibrant, stylish and modern” offering to a busy part of the town.
Simran continued: “We’re far more than a restaurant. We’ve combined sophistication with warmth and comfort, and everything is designed with intention.
“Our interior design shows our commitment to quality and creativity, and people get the feeling when they visit that we are passionate about hospitality.”
Opium has already shown their gratitude to the community by offering £1 burgers to all children throughout half-term, and they hope this reinforced that the venue is a space for everyone including families.
Simran says her proudest achievement is seeing the team grow and thrive, and how they have taken ownership of her and AJ’s vision in creating a “go-to destination” that puts Northampton on the map.
As well as the upcoming launch of their Christmas food and exclusive drinks menus, Opium looks forward to revealing their exciting plans for the future of the venue in January 2026.