Shropshire Star

The Loopy Shrew celebrates 10 years at the heart of Shrewsbury

The Loopy Shrew, a beloved venue in the heart of Shrewsbury, is proudly marking its 10th anniversary with a month-long celebration of events. Since opening its doors in November 2015, The Loopy Shrew has become a cornerstone of the local dining and social scene, offering memorable experiences to residents and visitors alike.

By contributor Siobhan Connor
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Last updated

The milestone was officially commemorated with a special birthday party bringing together loyal patrons, friends, and community members to celebrate a decade of exceptional service and hospitality. The event reflected The Loopy Shrew’s enduring commitment to quality and its gratitude to the community for unwavering support over the years.

Director of Loopy Shrew Danielle DiTella, Mayor of Shrewsbury Councillor Alex Wagner
Director of Loopy Shrew Danielle DiTella, Mayor of Shrewsbury Councillor Alex Wagner

Director of The Loopy Shrew Danielle DiTella said: “This anniversary is more than a celebration – it’s a thank you to everyone who has been part of our journey. We’re excited to continue creating unforgettable experiences for the next decade and beyond.”

L to R Jack Arthur, Riley Holloway, Adams Jones, Danielle Ditella, Liz Potter, Maliha Burrows
L to R Jack Arthur, Riley Holloway, Adams Jones, Danielle Ditella, Liz Potter, Maliha Burrows

Throughout November, guests can enjoy a curated calendar of events, exclusive menus, and special offers designed to honour the venue’s rich history and vibrant future. Guests booking a table for 4 or more between November 3-28, and quoting ‘a decade of Loopy’s’ will receive a free bottle of bubbly.

Fire eater outside Loopy Shrew
Fire eater outside Loopy Shrew

The Loopy Shrew is a family run Restaurant & Bar with Boutique Rooms headed up by businesswoman, LA-born and Shropshire bred Danielle DiTella and is part of The DiTella group, which also includes the Boutique Bed and Breakfast Darwin’s Townhouse and Luxurious town centre apartments At Home. Serving modern British food using produce locally sourced and lovingly made, with craft beers and a hand-selected wine list. There is live music every Sunday and Loopy’s After Dark every Friday and Saturday featuring local DJs from 9pm till late.

Director of Loopy Shrew Danielle DiTella and staff
Director of Loopy Shrew Danielle DiTella and staff

The name of the venue was inspired by the ongoing debate over the pronunciation of Shrewsbury V Shrowsbury and inspired the name The Loopy Shrew, alongside the loop of the river that encircles Shrewsbury town. The restaurant opens during the day and evening, seven days a week for breakfast, coffees, lunch and dinner. There is space for up 80+ covers and facilities for private dining, celebrations, meetings and large parties as well as an outside terrace.

Annie Francis McGann, Siobhan Connor, Meriel Rees-Pullman, Naomi Nicholas, Claudia Cooper
Annie Francis McGann, Siobhan Connor, Meriel Rees-Pullman, Naomi Nicholas, Claudia Cooper

The venue has always been a thriving attraction in Shrewsbury over the years. It was The Little Fruit Market at the front and the popular Sidoli's ice cream parlour and bakery opened in the 1940s. With over 100 years of history, Sidoli's Ice Cream was founded by Benedetto' Sidoli in 1922 when he made the three-week journey from Bardi in Italy to Cwm near Ebbw Vale. Nowadays, the fourth generation of the Sidoli family runs the business and they produce over 45 different flavours of dairy ice cream.

Disco ball girls at Loopy Shrew
Disco ball girls at Loopy Shrew

Francis Sidoli who once called the venue home and attended the event said: “Congratulations to The Loopy Shrew on reaching this incredible milestone! Ten years of creating a warm, welcoming space for the community is no small achievement. Your dedication to quality and hospitality has made you a true Shrewsbury favourite. Here’s to the next decade of success and memorable experiences.”

Heather Shepherd MBE, Sanjay Johal, Katia Sanhueza Pino from Flooded People UK
Heather Shepherd MBE, Sanjay Johal, Katia Sanhueza Pino from Flooded People UK

 Danielle DiTella said: "This anniversary isn’t just about a restaurant—it’s a celebration of continuity and community. The Loopy Shrew honours its past while embracing modern hospitality, creating a story that resonates with locals and visitors alike. Ten years ago today we opened our doors with a dream and a lot of hope. Today, we celebrate a decade of unforgettable moments, laughter and a wonderful community here in Shrewsbury. To our incredible suppliers, loyal customers, staff and cherished friends. Our resident Head Chef Carl Roberts who has been with us since The Mytton & Mermaid days and our General Manager Adam jones who I've worked side by side with for years — finally to my family and friends, thank you all for being the heartbeat of our journey, your support has built more than a venue; it’s built a family. Here’s to the next chapter, together.”

The staff of Boots, Shrewsbury
The staff of Boots, Shrewsbury

Since launching The Loopy Shrew continues to support all things local, quality, fresh and sustainable and is proud to welcome all of their suppliers to the evening including Wenlock Edge, Salopian Brewery, Ludlow Brewery, Hallowdene Hens, Corbetts amongst others.

Hannah Lupton, Sebastian Lupton, Dr Seppe Sehati
Hannah Lupton, Sebastian Lupton, Dr Seppe Sehati

Danielle added: “We always make sure our customers feel welcome at any time of day, whether it’s to have a breakfast meeting, quick coffee and cake, after-work drinks or to indulge themselves in an evening of fine wines and great food.”

Helen Reed, Maureen Donahue, Sue Harris, Gill Powell
Helen Reed, Maureen Donahue, Sue Harris, Gill Powell
The Loopy Shrew
The Loopy Shrew