Nottingham pub operator undertakes second Star Bars and Pubs site

A Nottingham pub operator is set to undertake his second “transformational” investment with Star Bars and Pubs, following a successful refurbishment of the Mill & Brook, Long Eaton.

Anthony Dowling will undertake the restoration of Finnbars in Sherwood, Nottingham, transforming it into a “stylish and contemporary” kitchen and bar called The Crafty Teller, a reference to its new focus on craft ales and to the pub’s former incarnation as a bank.

The Crafty Teller will include a live moss wall on the stairs, three bookable eclectic booths, each designed with different materials and colours to create different experiences, ‘selfie walls’ for customers to take selfie photographs in front of and stepped outdoor seating to maximise space in the small courtyard.

The bar is being moved to improve the flow and space within the trading area and will incorporate a deli counter and cocktail bar. As many as 70 covers are being created, including two big sharing tables and more comfortable seating. Floor to ceiling windows at the front of the building and a glass porch will also brighten up the interior, Dowling has said.

Food is being introduced, with breakfast and brunch from 10 till 2pm. Highlights of its menu will include a full English ‘Crafty Breakfast’, breakfast sliders with up to a dozen fillings, banana pancakes and sour dough with a choice of toppings ranging from smashed avocado to mackerel.

Customers will be able to select what to include in their sharing platters from the deli counter, as well as choose items from it to take away along with barista style coffee, cakes and sliders. Locally sourced ingredients will feature prominently including meat from JT Beedham, Rick Stein’s pork hero, and sliders from Birds Bakers.