It is the second investment licensee Anthony Dowling has undertaken with the pubco.
Irish sports bar Finnbars in Sherwood, Nottingham, will soon operate as a contemporary kitchen and bar. A new name, The Crafty Teller, makes reference to its new focus on craft ales and to the site’s former use as a bank.
Second investment
The investment follows a refurbishment of Dowling’s other bar Mill & Brook, in Long Eaton, at the end of 2017.
He said he had a great working relationship with the pubco after his first bar became a success.
Dowling continued: “Having had such a positive experience working with them on last year’s refurbishment of the Mill & Brook, I was keen to do the same to Finnbars.
"My focus will be on that for the time being, but in time I might look to add a third bar to my portfolio.”
Unique offer
He explained the new operation would offer the area something distinct to the other local bars.
Entertainment at the bar will be “low key” with occasional acoustic evenings. Instead, a quirky and engaging design will be at the forefront of customers’ experiences. Interiors will feature a live moss wall on the stairs, three colourful bookable booths and a selfie wall.
Stepped outdoor seating will maximise space in a small courtyard while 70 covers will be created inside the bar.
Dowling added: “In the daytime we’ll be catering for parents with babies as well as workers wanting somewhere for a coffee, breakfast or lunch, and in the evening, the kitchen & bar will appeal to young professionals wanting a quieter place to eat and drink.
'City centre vibe'
Star Pubs & Bars regional operations director Alun Johnson said: “Anthony has done a fantastic job at the Mill & Brook in Long Eaton, increasing turnover tenfold.
"Having run Finnbars for a few years, he knows the area well and what local people want and wants to bring a city centre vibe to Sherwood.
“We’re delighted to be working with him a second time to create a unique and quirky bar and kitchen in an up and coming area of Nottingham and wish him every success.”
