Forum Topic

New owner for the Chiswick Fire Station

The people who set up the bar at 197 Chiswick High Road on the former fire station site, Darwin and Wallace, have sold it, along with the other venues in their chain, to the Portobello Pub Company. This will probably mean a change of emphasis with more craft beers. Chances are there will be a refurb and a name change. It isn't a terrible venue but does have a bit of an airport terminal vibe about it so a change of look probably won't go amiss.

Andrew OSullivan ● 320d8 Comments

My half remembered economic lessons tell me that direct competition isn't alway a bad thing. Even if the Fire Station is transformed into something more like the George, a cluster of similar businesses can attract more customers so that each operation sees a revenue increase. One issue may be the retirement home being built which could lead to licence restrictions later on.This section of the south side of the High Road is on the cusp - new investment in a local bar is to be welcomed and will help hold back the tide of businesses with little walk in business such as Five Guys and Chipotle which are really just delivery outlets.

Francis Rowe ● 314d

Given its proximity to the George IV, Fullers flagship pub on CHR I was led to believe, that seems a very brave choice by the pub orientated buyer.I appreciate that based on their other venues which I have no knowledge of it may be a very different branding model to Fullers.

Joe Conneely ● 316d

I don't dislike it hugely but was hoping for something more like an actual pub with less emphasis on dining. If keeping it as it is is a sign that it is doing well rather than they can't afford a refurb then I'd be pleased for them.

Andrew OSullivan ● 316d

I can understand what Andrew is driving at re the Fire Station but I have come to like it as it is so am pleased they aren't going to change things.

Felicity Caborn ● 316d

"And you prob still get drinkers drinking every night at £5 plus for a pint of beer," 7.50/10 A PINT and that is the problem you face in winter months mon-thurs along with food takings. A huge risk in my view and a sector to stay right away from,and more so if you go towards the high end.

Julian Pavey ● 317d

Personally don't drink alcohol; but the cost of refurbing and  commercial rent on a place like that must be enormous. And you prob still get drinkers drinking every night at £5 plus for a pint of beer, and smoking cigarettes, who affords this kind of lifestyle anymore with the cost of everything?

Carl Johns ● 317d

Propel News reports: The Mark Crowther-chaired Portobello said that Darwin & Wallace will continue to operate under the same name and continue to provide guests with its “high-quality, all-day drinking and dining offer that has become revered for its high standards and award-winning design, as well as its sustainability credentials and commitments”.

Paul Charlton ● 319d

Interesting.Portobello Pub Company appears to be part of the same group as Portobello Brewing.  You see their beers in a few local pubs and their brewery is in an industrial estate near the Westway.As you say, I'd expect it to change to a more pub/beer focussed venue.

Michael Robinson ● 320d