Thanks for Coming brings a new kind of night out to Stone

A new cocktail bar has opened beneath Austin and Roe on Stone High Street. It is called Thanks for Coming, and the team behind it say it will offer a slower, more relaxed way to spend an evening.

Friends for more than 25 years, Jon Platt and Martin Ball are the pair behind the project. Both live locally and say the idea grew from wanting the kind of place they would choose themselves. A small room, good service, and a drink made properly.

“We picked Stone because it’s home,” Martin said.

“The town already has a great night out. We’re adding one more option, something seated and calm, where people can actually talk.”

A quieter pace below ground

The bar occupies the basement space below Austin and Roe. Martin said the location was part of the appeal.

“Basement bars have a different feel,” he said.

“You walk down a few steps, and the street disappears. It becomes quieter, softer. It feels like you’ve stepped somewhere else for a while.”

Inside, the focus will be on mixed drinks served at the table. The menu will be tight and well-prepared, with freshly pressed juices, house syrups and clean, cold builds. Alcohol-free cocktails will be given the same attention.

Local links and future plans

Thanks for Coming is open Thursday to Sunday each week, with later hours on Fridays and Saturdays. The first few weeks will be a gentle start, with limited bookings while the team finds its rhythm.

The bar will work with local suppliers, including Grove Estate, Whitebridge Wines, Sixtowns Bros Distillery, All Seasons, Wandering Bee, and Freedom Brewery.

It will also add a few staff as it grows, mainly bartender or host roles. Anyone interested can email a short note and CV to info@tfcbar.com with the subject line “Job – Your Name”.

“We’re keeping things steady at first,” Martin said.

“No big launch, no discounts. Just good drinks and friendly service.”

Thanks for Coming is expected to fully open later this month beneath Austin and Roe. Updates will appear on Facebook and Instagram, look out for @tfcbar.