Geronimo eyes Heathrow

by John Harrington Gastro pub operator Geronimo Inns hopes to take premium pub dining into uncharted territory with plans to open a new outlet at Heathrow airport.

The pubco, which currently owns 15 non-branded pubs in London, is in discussions with the BAA about opening a pub at Heathrow's new 50,000-sq ft retail space in May next year.

The plan is to serve British food such as bangers and mash, as well as all-day breakfasts, to cater for travellers.

"It is a chance to get into a more mainstream environment," managing director Rupert Clevely told Restaurant Magazine.

"[BAA] want something with a different feel that's reflective of what's happening in the pub market.

We're working on a concept based around travel in the '30s and '40s."

Clevely added that although the food would be fresh, it would have to be prepared off-site for logistical reasons.

The pubco recently received a boost when four of its outlets were among the 40 London pubs included in the Michelin Eating Out in Pubs Guide, published earlier this month.

Among the pubs included was the Hill on Haverstock Hill, which had only been open for two months following a refurbishment.

The pub is said to be a favourite haunt of celebrities including Oasis stars Liam and Noel Gallagher, and Sadie Frost.

Clevely said: "Michelin's decision to publish the first ever dedicated Eating Out in Pubs Guide demonstrates how seriously pubs are being taken these days.

"We feel it's a huge step towards raising the standards of pub grub, not only in London but across the country.

It shows pubs are real contenders for preferred top eating spots in the restaurant industry."

Geronimo's other pubs included in the guide are: the Builder's Arms, Chelsea; the Queens in Regents Park Road; and the King's Head in Winchmore Hill.