The owners and operators of the Bermuda Bistro at the Beach have been awarded the tender for the Horseshoe Bay Beach concession.

Chops Ltd, which also runs Red Steakhouse and Bar, promises a “classic, vibrant, laid-back Bermuda beach experience”, according to the Ministry of Public Works.

There are plans for a happy hour, live music, small gift shop, and an “exciting mix of local and ethnic cuisine” will be on offer along with the rental of chairs, beach toys and umbrellas.

It is proposed that Chops Ltd will be fully operational by mid-April next year but it will be offering a scaled-back service from Good Friday this year.

According to the Ministry, Chops Ltd was the winning bid because of the proposed capital investment in the building with no need for government financing or concessions, a good business model and proven industry track record, focus on both tourists and locals, their international experience, and knowledge of the BTA tourism vision and how the concession fits into the tourism experience.

Other factors included their fast turnaround to become fully operational by the start of the 2017 tourist season and significant job opportunities and training for Bermudians.

Rick Olson, president of Chops Ltd, expressed hope that Horseshoe Beach would eventually be named as one of the world’s top five beaches.

Last month, it was named the 14th best beach globally by Conde Nast Traveller magazine.

Mr Olson added: “We are passionate about creating experiences for our visitors that translate into great memories for years to come, leading to return visits.

“We are all about creating jobs for Bermudians and playing our part in driving Bermuda’s economic recovery.

“Given that Horseshoe Bay is the single most visited attraction in Bermuda, we look forward to working with all sectors within the tourism industry.

“This includes hotels and cruise lines, the Bermuda Tourism Authority, transportation services, local musicians and entertainers.”

A ministry spokeswoman said the winner was selected by a panel of individuals from the Bermuda Tourism Authority, the Department of Parks and the Department of Public Lands and Buildings with observers from the Bermuda Tourism Authority and the Ministry of Economic Development. She added that neither the panel nor the group of observers included any government ministers.

A total of 16 bids were received by the Ministry of Public Works, which put the tender out on December 11 last year with a closing date of January 22.

“The response we received for this was tremendous,” Craig Cannonier, the Minister of Public Works, said.

Other bidders included Fun Tyme, Chris and Starla Williams, Ocean Commotion, Ice Queen, Heinz Still Hospitality Management, Corkscrew Ltd, Speciality Inn, Sensational Delights, Fantasea Bermuda, Low Botham Boats Company Ltd, Beach Boys, Grammy’s Bistro, Arreis Ltd, Fusion Grill and Longtail Group.