Zen Group, founded by entrepreneurs Sam Gadd and Zak Newton, is a vibrant hospitality collective bringing global flavours to the heart of Durham.

With a shared passion for food, culture, and community, their venues – Zen, Tango, The Rabbit Hole, and Whitechurch – have become much-loved favourites among locals and visitors alike. Known for their bold fusion menus, immersive atmospheres, and commitment to quality, Zen Group has helped redefine Durham’s dining scene.

Swinburne Maddison has been proud to support Sam and Zak through key milestones in their journey, helping them grow from a family-run restaurant into a thriving hospitality brand.

The Situation: From Family Legacy to Culinary Empire

When the opportunity arose for Sam and Zak, two driven entrepreneurs, to take ownership of Zen and its sister venue The Rabbit Hole, it marked a significant turning point.

Originally founded by Sam’s parents, Nigel and Deborah Gadd, these venues were more than a restaurant, they are a family legacy. Taking the reins was both a heartfelt decision and a bold business move.

With a shared vision to bring more flavour to Durham and build a diverse hospitality group, Sam and Zak were ready to make their mark. At Swinburne Maddison, we’ve been proud to support them throughout this exciting transformation.

The Solution: Legal Expertise Fuelling Hospitality Ambitions

The team at Swinburne Maddison brings extensive experience in the leisure and hospitality sector, and we’re proud to count Zen Group among our valued clients.

Our role has been to provide strategic legal guidance across multiple areas, helping Zak and Sam build on the strong foundations of Zen and expand their vision into a thriving portfolio of venues.

From corporate structuring to commercial property and employment law, our support has been tailored to meet the evolving needs of a growing hospitality brand.

Before acquiring Zen, Zak and Sam had already made a name for themselves with Tango, a popular burger and steakhouse, along with a successful mobile catering venture.

Throughout their journey, our focus was on protecting the integrity of the business, supporting its people, and laying the legal groundwork for a thriving hospitality group.

Taking Ownership: Serving Up a New Venture

The acquisition of Zen and The Rabbit Hole was a natural next step, one that allowed them to expand their footprint and bring new energy to these already beloved restaurants.

We supported them through:

• Corporate Structuring – Facilitating the change of ownership and ensuring the business was set up for future growth.
• Financing Arrangements – Supporting the financial restructuring needed to secure the purchases.
• Commercial Property Matters – Navigating a complex mix of freehold and leasehold titles.
• Commercial advice – Support on day-to-day operations of the group.
• TUPE – Managing the transfer of employees with care and sensitivity, preserving the culture and values that makes Zen Group special.

Tango’s Big Move: Scaling Up in Style

In 2023, Tango relocated from its original home on Elvet Bridge to a larger, more dynamic space on Saddler Street.

This move was a major milestone, tripling the restaurant’s capacity and enhancing the overall dining experience.

Our commercial property team provided legal support in the surrender of the lease at Elvet Bridge and he negotiation and completion of the new lease at Saddler Street.

This relocation was a key part of Zen Group’s broader strategy to grow their presence in Durham and offer even more to their loyal customer base.

Gearing Up for Growth: Whitechurch Joins the Family

With Zen, The Rabbit Hole, and Tango thriving, 2023 marked another exciting chapter for Zen Group: the acquisition of Whitechurch, a well-regarded bistro located near Durham University.

Known for its brunches, Sunday roasts, and warm, welcoming atmosphere, Whitechurch is now being reimagined to include a grab-and-go artisan deli, a fresh and modern addition to the Zen Group experience.

Our commercial property team played a key role in enabling this acquisition, advising on and negotiating the lease terms to ensure they aligned with Zen Group’s long-term vision for the site. They conducted due diligence to identify and resolve any potential risks or restrictions associated with the property.

The Results: A Feast of Flavours

Today, Zen Group stands as a vibrant and growing hospitality brand, offering a portfolio of unique dining experiences across Durham:

• Zen – Thai-inspired fine dining with a contemporary twist
• Tango – Gourmet burgers and steaks in a bold, energetic setting
• The Rabbit Hole – A speakeasy-style venue serving refined Cantonese fusion
• Whitechurch – A relaxed bistro known for brunch, Sunday roasts, and soon, an artisan grab-and-go deli

Each venue brings something distinct to the table, yet all are united by a shared commitment to quality, creativity, and community.

Behind the scenes, Swinburne Maddison has played a key role in supporting Zen Group’s transformation, from a family-run restaurant to a thriving hospitality group. Our legal support has helped:

• Ensure a smooth transition from a family business to a professionally managed group
• Enable strategic growth while staying rooted in and supportive of the local community
• Deliver trusted hospitality expertise across all areas of law, including corporate, commercial property, employment, and day-to commercial advice.

What Zen Group had to say…

We are incredibly excited to continue working with Zen Group on their next opportunity and celebrating their achievements and incredible food.

 

 

 

“Swinburne Maddison has been an invaluable partner throughout our journey. Their legal expertise, pragmatic advice, and genuine understanding of our vision have allowed us to grow with confidence while staying true to our roots. We are incredibly grateful for their support and look forward to continuing this partnership as we explore new opportunities.”

Zak Newton & Sam Gadd, Co-Founders, Zen Group

A Trusted Partner in Hospitality and Growth

At Swinburne Maddison, we thrive in the leisure and hospitality sector. Supporting local businesses like Zen Group is a rewarding journey.

Whether you are looking to take on a new culinary venture or opening the doors to buzzing bar, you can be sure that your legal needs are supported.

Looking for a legal team that understands your ambitions? Let’s talk.

Call us on 0191 384 2441