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By Andrew Brown
The business now has three venues across Merseyside that are busier than ever
Emily's in Formby and its sister restaurant Penelope's in Birkdale have enjoyed a significant boost following The Open Championship at Royal Birkdale.
The two venues, owned by Rebel Restaurants, were among the many local businesses to benefit as thousands of golf fans travelled to the area during tournament week.
Penelope's, which opened in July 2024, has become well known for its modern menu and stylish interior, while Emily's continues to be one of Formby's most popular brunch destinations.
Open Champion Ryan Fox was among those to visit the restaurants during his time on Merseyside, dining at both Emily's in Formby and Penelope's in Birkdale during tournament week.
The restaurants have also welcomed a number of well-known visitors over the years. Previous guests have included comedian Michael McIntyre, former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, actor James Nelson-Joyce, boxer Tony Bellew, football legend Sir Kenny Dalglish, along with a number of professional footballers and television personalities.
During Michael McIntyre and Steven Gerrard's visit to Emily's, the pair donated £2,000 to the restaurant's charity wishing well, which was raising funds for Clatterbridge Cancer Centre.
With Penelope's recently celebrating its second anniversary and The Open bringing visitors from around the world to the area, the restaurants are now looking ahead to a busy summer of graduations, celebrations and holiday trade.
Like many hospitality businesses, the group has faced industry-wide challenges in recent years, but The Open provided a welcome boost for businesses across Formby, Birkdale and the surrounding area.
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