It was all a bit sad when Magic Roll closed its doors for the last time. Known for its amazing khobez wraps filled generously with meats, veggies, salads and sauces, the first Magic Roll was opened on the Clifton Triangle by chef Leon Hughes in the early 2000s. The menu originally featured other things too, but it was the rolls that became the real hit – and so Magic Roll was born.
There’s no denying that it became an institution in Bristol, and another 2 shops were opened over the next 8 years. Sadly, though, Leon left the company for personal reasons, and Magic Roll as it was known then ceased to trade.
Leon continued to work with good friend chef Alex Hayes, though, and the pair established an events catering company, lectured in catering and hospitality, and had a short stint as owners of Mexican street food cafe El Guapo on Baldwin Street. Leon always thought, though, that Magic Roll was unfinished business…
Fast forward to early 2016, and a phone call from Alex Gerardi, the landlord of the Magic Roll site on Redcliff Street. The company that had bought Magic Roll had decided to end their business at the site, and Alex wanted to know if Leon would consider taking the project back on.
And so, Rebel Roll was born. Teaming up with Alex Hayes, Alex Gerardi and his wife Sarah, the opening date is expected to be September 28th, 2016. It will, they say, be a bigger and better version of Magic Roll: the khobez wraps will still feature heavily, but the cooking will be more refined: they’ll be smoking meats and other items, and doing far more with the fillings for the rolls, all of which will be made on-site. There will be a pre-ordering system available, meaning that diners will be able to have their lunch prepared for collection at the time that best suits them.
Expect Extract coffee, homemade brownies, salads, a house burger and a breakfast offering, and down the line, the four plan on offering artisan pizza and beer delivery after dark too.
To stay up-to-date with the team’s progress, follow them on Instagram (@rebelrollbristol) and Twitter (@rebel_roll).
[…] side by side with Caffe Oro on Redcliff Street, Rebel Roll opened on Wednesday, September 28th – and there’s been much excitement surrounding it. Why? Because it’s a venue […]