THE new kid on the block is run by two familiar faces from York's cosmopolitan licensed trade.

Willy Leech, silent partner in Kennedy's Bar, and Liam Fagan, owner of the Roman Bath, have joined together to create... Wil_Liam's.

This utterly uncontrived name is all the better when you consider the alternative: Leech_Fag.

Described as a smart caf bar, Wil_Liam's can be found where Goodramgate meets Ogleforth (hey - they could have called it Good_Ogle...).

"Liam is Irish for William and the mixing of our names reflects the 'fusion' theme," Liam tells Bar Talk.

"We're mixing old with new and Irish/British with international in the food and dcor. We wanted to create an interesting and eclectic place."

To help them achieve their goal, Willy and Liam have brought in chef John Southon, from the York Hilton. The plan is to dish up top hotel-style nosh at "caf bar affordability".

On the menu, paninis, fajitas and nachos sit alongside Thai fish cakes, sirloin steaks and daily specials using local, seasonal produce whenever possible.

To drink, there is a range of British and continental beers, plus wines and spirits.

The interior of the Grade II building has been converted into a swish joint, boasting laminate flooring and beech-topped tables. The two rooms upstairs are non-smoking.

"We are aiming at a particular audience of people. Those who want a calm, cool and contemporary place to enjoy their food and drink in," Willy said.

KNICKERS to Woodstock, and yah-boo to Glastonbury. The place to be this summer is the first Masham Black Sheep Music Festival.

The weekend of folk, jazz, blues and roots music takes place throughout the picturesque dales town on June 17-19.

Names such as The Strawbs, Tanglefoot (the group not the beer) and Matt Nelson have confirmed already.

Sponsored by the Black Sheep Brewery, you can find more details at www.blacksheepbrewery.com/musicfestival.

Updated: 16:43 Friday, April 08, 2005