Pub Awards: Best Sports finalist - Bar Sport Derby

A chunky investment last year helped renovate this run down venue that, in a previous life, was once an Indian restaurant. Since opening in February 2015, the bar has gone from strength and strength and is known for its big match atmosphere, unparalleled viewing experience and one-off special themed nights.

Unashamedly borrowing the best characteristics of classic US sports bars, the venue offers private booths with their own TVs, bookable VIP areas, multiple zones complete with high-definition screens, sports memorabilia on the walls and a separate games area. Beyond rugby and football (the bar has strong links with Derby County FC and the local rugby club), US sport is also proving a big hit with the Superbowl one of the biggest nights of the year, along with pay-per-view boxing and horseracing.

Menu

The menu offers classic dishes associated with sports bars such as wings, ribs, hot dogs and sharing platters. A ‘Man vs Food’ challenge section is also popular. Premium lagers sell well, as does it house ale, brewed locally by Derby Brewing Company, and soon to be available at the football club. The team work hard to attract as wide a demographic as possible and aim to make the venue female friendly through special party nights.

A new menu in the pipeline aims to attract the influx of new students expected in the city and boost daytime trade. Staff retention is good with a ‘team’ ethos evident supported by regular incentives for hitting sales targets. Community relations are strong, with sponsorship of various teams and a good working relationship with the local council, PubWatch and police.