A landmark pub in Wembley is reopening with a new name following a major £700,000 investment.
The Greyhound pub on Harrow Road, will open its doors in mid-October after a three-year closure.
The pub, renamed The Arch in reference to its arch shaped windows and the arches of Wembley is being transformed into a bar, restaurant and 15-bedroom hotel.
Savan Patel has taken over the running of the pub on a 25-year lease.
The 31-year-old said: “We’re there for the long run. I’ve known The Greyhound all my life but never dreamt I would end up running it. It’s such a prominent and iconic building, it’s been sad to see it boarded up for so long.
“All it needed was an investment of time and money and I’ll certainly be giving it both. It’s great to have a business so near where I grew up and to be surrounded by people who know me.”
Mr Patel, started working in his father’s Indian restaurant Club 2000 in Rayners Lane, Harrow, where he lives.
He added: “I’ve been working with him and developed a passion for the hospitality trade. I want to bring some quality offering of Indian food to the Greyhound and all the rooms have en suite bathrooms so it will be a nice place to stay.”
The outside of the building is being repaired and its 45 windows replaced. A garden and patio area will be created at the front and side of The Arch replacing the car park.
The inside is being stripped and knocked through into one large space. A new kitchen is being installed, dining area created and coffee served.
Open during the day it will serve an Indian menu, with a street food inspired lunch menu, all with an Indian twist.
The opening of The Arch will create around 15 new jobs including a team of three chefs.
The £700,000 is a joint investment by Mr Patel and Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars
Chris Jowsey, Star Pubs & Bars trading director said: “We’re delighted that such a dynamic, enthusiastic and committed operator as Savan is taking over The Greyhound. Heineken is a passionate supporter of the great British pub and has invested in bars and pubs to help them deliver excellent quality, attract customers and thrive at the heart of their communities for years to come.”
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