If there’s one thing Dubai is not short of, it’s British-themed pubs — count ‘em on your hands, and you may quickly run out of fingers.
But while many expats will already have their beloved local firmly established, it could be time to reassess allegiances following the opening of one new watering hole, The Rose & Crown.
The bosses have already got one thing right, tapping into expats’ homesick nostalgia by claiming the UK’s fourth most popular pub names — with estimates suggesting there are as many as 300 Rose & Crown’s currently open at home.
If that pressure was not enough, the new venue also occupies a hallowed piece of ground, not far from some rather storied nocturnal memories.
The Rose & Crown is part of the new St Regis Dubai — which sits on the site of the former Metropolitan Hotel, once home of the Red Lion pub.
Prior to the site’s 2012 demolition, the ‘Lion was hailed as “Dubai’s oldest pub”, in operation since December 1978, and renowned for a regulars’ camaraderie sadly absent at so many of the city’s younger faux-European nightlife establishments. (Technically The Chelsea Arms, in the Sheraton Dubai Creek, is believed to be a few months older – but was overlooked on the northern side of the creek, and today lacks the ‘Lions sense of time-worn authenticity).
Incidentally — Red Lion is officially the UK’s most common pub name, according to the BBPA. At the time of writing, no other names at the top end of the list have been adopted in Dubai.
Another leaf The Rose & Crown may have lifted — this time from a markedly closer competing tree — is the presence of a bright red phone-box outside, marking the street level entrance. Sound familiar?
In soft launch stage since July 5, The Rose & Crown are now shouting loudly about their full launch in August.
The venue promises to recreate the classic pub vibe with a mix of decor — “stained glass windows, porcelain tiling, a Victorian fireplace” — food and drink, with classic pub grub favourites and specialist brews promised.
Restless souls can occupy their hands and minds with board games, darts and pool, while major sporting clashes will be screened, starting this month with the Rio 2016 Olympics.
The opening marks the first venue in The Atrium complex, a collection of restaurants, bars and entertainment venues which will form part of the wider, waterside Al Habtoor City development.
• The Rose & Crown is open daily from 11am to 2am. See www.roseandcrowndubai.com.
rgarratt@thenational.ae
