
A Newtown Township restaurant and bar has a new owner after a deal finalized earlier this spring.
Philadelphia-based GuestCounts Hospitality, known for its Cuba Libre Restaurant and Rum Bar brand, acquired Paladar Latin Kitchen in King of Prussia and both Bomba Taco + Bar locations in Malvern and Newtown Township from Ohio-based Paladar Restaurant Group.
GuestCounts officially took ownership on March 27.
GuestCounts’ partners, Barry Gutin, Larry Cohen, and Bob Gallo, have committed at least $500,000 combined for improvements across the three establishments.
Barry Gutin, principal and co-founder of GuestCounts Hospitality, stated that the acquisition was nearly two years in the making.
Since the acquisition we have been gearing up to bring new energy, improvements and a local perspective that will enhance the guest experience at all three locations,” said Gutin. “As long-time Philadelphia operators, taking over management from a Midwest-owned group gives us the opportunity to bring our local history, knowledge and connections to these already very successful concepts.”
The Newtown Township Bomba location, along with its Malvern counterpart, will see upgrades.
Both Bomba restaurants are being outfitted with enhanced sound systems, additional televisions, new video signage displaying daily taco and tequila sayings, and improved outdoor seating options.
Gutin shared that “everything is going to be ‘extra’ with an edgy narrative and updated décor, focusing on the mischievous side of tacos and tequilas.”
The brand’s name has also evolved from Bomba Taco + Bar to Bomba ¡Tacos + Tequila! to reflect a stronger emphasis on tequila-centric mixology and an improved customer experience.
Starting in July, both Bomba locations will extend their hours to include a new “¡Tequila Time!” happy hour from 8:30 to 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
The Newtown location in the Village of Newtown shopping center will offer expanded outdoor seating with a view of the neighboring public amphitheater.
Gutin emphasized that GuestCounts aims to “crank up the vibe” at their newly acquired restaurants.
“We’re bringing more fun and energy to Paladar and Bomba, enhancing celebration dining experiences and introducing new late evening happy hours and late night weekend events to the suburbs,” he said.
He also noted that ongoing culinary collaborations are planned between the Cuba Libre, Paladar, and Bomba teams.
The three business partners have a long history in the region’s nightlife scene. They have owned or operated well-known venues such as Pulsations Nightclub, Egypt on the Waterfront, and Shampoo Nightclub.
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