A new café and wine bar with a speakeasy hidden below has opened in an old Hartlepool bank.
Meraki welcomed its first customers in September after months of work transforming a former bank into Hartlepool's newest destination for coffee, food, wine and cocktails.
The owners held a soft launch for family and friends on Friday, September 11, before making final adjustments and opening to the public on Thursday, September 17.
Meraki in Hartlepool officially opened its doors on Thursday, September 17. (Image: Meraki)
Inspired by Scandinavian minimalism with a Mediterranean twist, Meraki serves artisan coffee and pastries by day before transforming into a wine and cocktail bar at night.
Meraki serves coffee and sweet treats by day. (Image: Meraki)
But one of the Meraki’s biggest attractions is hidden beneath the main floor.
Behind a former bank vault door sits The Vault by Meraki - a speakeasy-style bar separate from the main venue.
With soft lighting, curated music and Venetian-inspired décor, the underground space has been designed to create a more intimate and refined atmosphere.
Meraki Hartlepool (Image: Meraki)
Meraki said: "Behind the vault door lies something entirely different - a space designed for those who appreciate the finer details.
"Soft, intimate lighting. Curated music. Venetian-inspired décor. A setting that feels hidden, exclusive and quietly unforgettable.
"This is not just an extension of Meraki - it's a new experience."
The Vault seats about 30 people, operates on a first-come, first-served basis and also hosts private functions.
Meraki Hartlepool (Image: Meraki)
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The team is now preparing to launch Charcuterie Evenings in The Vault from Thursday, October 8.
Every Thursday and Sunday from 4pm, customers can choose Italian, Spanish or mixed charcuterie boards for two, paired with specially selected wines in a hidden “out of sight” setting.
Meraki is open every day from 10am until late on Church Square - serving artisan sweet treats, coffee, wine and cocktails.
More information about Meraki and its rotating sweet treat specials can be found on the venue's Facebook page.