Diners in Wigan drop their jaws after pleasant surprise from Jamaican track legend

Diners in Wigan drop their jaws after pleasant surprise from Jamaican track legend

Eric Munene 08:14 - 30.09.2024

Usain Bolt showed up to a restaurant in Wigan to devour some sea food delicacies.

Diners at La Casa Restaurant & Bar in Astley, near Wigan, were in for an unforgettable surprise as eight-time Olympic gold medallist Usain Bolt made a special appearance to celebrate a notable occasion.

The 38-year-old sprinting legend joined a gathering of friends, including Premier League cult hero Ricardo Gardner, for Gardner’s 46th birthday.

Bolt’s visit marks yet another instance of the eatery attracting high-profile sports personalities.

La Casa has gained a reputation for hosting notable figures from the sports world, including the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson and boxer Tommy Fury.

This was Bolt’s third visit to the restaurant this year, a testament to the establishment's appeal and its authentic culinary offerings.

The evening kicked off with Bolt indulging in a plate of deep-fried calamari (£11.55), before moving on to the main attraction: a delicious sea bass dish served with clams in a white wine sauce, priced at £23.50.

As Bolt enjoyed his meal, the restaurant staff and fellow diners couldn’t help but be captivated by his presence, leading to a buzz of excitement throughout the establishment.

The restaurant manager, Gianluca, remarked on the electric atmosphere, stating, “It’s mad, he’s a really ‘big’ guy.”

Meanwhile, Pietro Garrafa, another manager who had only recently started working at La Casa, expressed his astonishment at Bolt’s arrival. “I didn’t take the reservation, but I was shocked to see him when he came in. Everyone was asking for pictures,” he shared.

Despite the attention surrounding Bolt, the spotlight was also on Gardner, who enjoyed a remarkable career at Bolton Wanderers, making 251 Premier League appearances between 1998 and 2012.

His contributions to the club have made him a beloved figure among fans, and his birthday celebration was a fitting tribute.

To accommodate the special occasion, La Casa extended its operating hours, staying open for two more hours to ensure guests could fully enjoy the evening.

The restaurant posted on social media, “We’re thrilled to welcome back the legendary Usain Bolt to La Casa! Always a pleasure serving the fastest man on earth—where great food meets great company.”

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