WOKINGHAM’S newest pub is preparing to open its doors for the first time tomorrow, launching with a Christmas menu.
The Foundry Bell is on the site of the former Loch Fyne, which closed earlier this year, and is returning to its roots nearly 100 years after it opened as The Plough back in 1924.
The London Road pub has undergone a three-month refurbishment, that pays tribute to its heritage while looking forward to the future.
So, alongside original oak beams and herringbone brickwork are cubicles with plug sockets and USB ports to allow people to work from the pub. Two fireplaces have been restored, while curved nooks have been crafted out of wood.
There is a large outdoor area, complete with heaters, to allow people to enjoy some fresh air while sitting on sofas and benches. The pub can also lend blankets for those who want to enjoy a coffee under the stars.
And there is a private dining room for up to 14 people tucked away at the back, which the pub will allow customers to book for special occasions.
It is a gastropub, offering tapas style sharing plates, called Stix, some small plates, steaks, pizzas and burgers, as well as main courses and sides.
The aim is to showcase the best of seasonal British produce.
Sample mains include Rolled Orchard Farm Pork Belly, served with braised lentils, black cabbage and salsa verde (£17), and Roast Butternut Squash and Barley Risotto, served with almonds, chestnuts, toasted pumpkin seeds and crispy sage (£14).
Pizzas include a Steak, Caramelised Sweet Onion, Blue Cheese and Rocket (£16), or Pulled Duck, Hoi Sin Sauce, Spring Onion and Fresh Rocket (£15).
The pub’s head chef, Christian Fernandez, has fused tradition and innovation to curate a menu which celebrates provenance and showcases the best of British produce.
“We’re all about great social food, from grazing sharing plates and stix, to artisan pizzas, plus a brunch menu worth dedicating a morning to,” he said.
“What’s more is that we’ve been meticulous in sourcing the very best produce across everything from vegetables to meats; our British steaks for example are from specialist heritage breeds, whilst our Sunday Roasts offer organic meat options and vegetables, all cooked fresh on the day.”
The pub has a brand-new curved bar which looks very elegant, and will have beers from Siren Craft Brew on tap, and it has its own Foundry Bell Pale Ale.
Staff have been trained in cocktail making, while a temperature-controlled wine cellar will include more than 44 different types, from vineyards across the world.
As a result of the changes, including a newly-built glass orangery and the patio area, the pub can now seat up to 250 people at any one time, so there shouldn’t be any problem getting a table.
The pub’s manager is Mason Gray, who said: “After months of renovation, we’ve been waiting patiently to be able to open our doors, and the whole team is hugely excited to finally welcome locals dropping in for a pint by the fireplace, friends getting together or families hosting celebrations in our new pub.
“We’ve considered every detail, from our beautiful new interior and exterior, to our hand-picked local suppliers, everything is in place to make sure we can give guests a memorable experience.”
The Foundry Bell opens on Friday, December 2. After that, it will open daily from 8.30am, with a brunch menu available.
For more details, log on to: www.thefoundrybell-wokingham.co.uk/
