WOKINGHAM’S newest pub is set to open its doors next month.
The Foundry Bell on London Road, formerly a Loch Fyne seafood restaurant, will welcome its first punters on Friday, December 2.
The site has undergone three months of renovation, including the additions of an elevated terrace and outdoor snug.
Mason Gray, the newly appointed general manager at the pub, 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 building, which was first built as a public house in 1924, has almost 100 years of history that has been restored to showcase the original herringbone brickwork, oak beams and wood-burning fireplaces.
Included in the renovation is the introduction of a newly built glass orangery and an extended terraced patio area to the front, which has almost doubled the seating capacity with space for more than 250 guests at any one time.
Al-fresco diners will benefit from heaters, covered dining areas and individual guest blankets.
Dedicated dining and drinking areas have been designed for both inside and out including drinking ‘nooks’ by the fireplaces, to banquet-style seating for larger dining parties.
The pub also has a private dining room for special occasions which can seat up to 14 people.
The food and drink menus offer seasonal British produce and a range of craft beers, lagers, and cask ales.
Siren Craft Brew will be available on tap whilst wine lovers can pick from more than 44 hand-selected wines from across the world.
There will also be classic cocktails and seasonal adaptations including a Rhubarb Martini or a Rum Daiquiri, plus a range of non-alcoholic drinks and coffees served daily from 8.30am.
Christian Fernandez, head chef at The Foundry Bell, said he has tried to fuse “tradition and innovation to curate a menu which celebrates provenance and showcases the best of British produce”.
Mr Fernandez added: “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.
“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 Foundry Bell will be open daily from 8.30am serving brunch and throughout the day will be serving lunch through to dinner and drinks.
For more information, visit: www.thefoundrybell-wokingham.co.uk