Patty & Bun founder Joe Grossmann has moved into the pub sector with the relaunch of south London pub The Watermans Arms.
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Joe Grossman, who launched burger chain Patty & Bun in London after taking inspiration from a roadtrip across the US, has made his first move into the pub sector with the refurbishment of a pub building near where the chef grew up.
Grossman opened his first restaurant on St James’s Street in 2013 after hosting burger pop-ups across the city.
A decade later, he is set to open the doors to The Watermans Arms this September.
He said of the new venture: “The Watermans Arms has been a long-time dream of mine and, as soon as there was the opportunity to take the space and prospect of building something truly special within an area I grew up in, there was no looking back. The bones of the place are incredible with high ceilings, beautiful original windows and doors along with a balcony overlooking the water. There are not many locations like it in London, it’s completely unique and iconic.”
There will be an outside dining space spanning the entire frontage of the pub with a capacity for 14 covers plus space for a private dining room on the first floor for up to 16 covers.
Head chef Sam Andrews, who previously headed up the kitchen at the Camberwell Arms and Soho’s Ducksoup, will be running things in the kitchen.
Leading the front of house team will be general manager Simon Walsh, formerly of the Anglesea Arms in Hammersmith.
“It’s in fantastic hands with Sam and Simon spearheading the project — two absolute legends who I’ve known for a while and always greatly admired,” Grossman said.
Richard Thomas, director at property agency Shelley Sandzer, which acted on behalf of the landlord for the deal, said of the new pub launch: “Having grown up in Barnes, Joe will bring all the passion and excitement of a true local champion to the former Watermans Arms site.”
“He has picked up huge hospitality experience across the capital, and this new venture will follow in the same footsteps. Soon to be a cornerstone for the neighbourhood, The Watermans Arms will deliver on both its pub and restaurant elements, in a way that is elevated but instantly recognisable.”
This article was originally published by the drinks business and has been shared with permission.
