Ei Publican Partnerships and an entrepreneurial father and daughter have made a joint investment of £155,000 to upgrade the facilities and introduce a new innovative food offer at ROUTE 16, Torquay, formerly known as The Old Coach House Inn.
The significant renovations include a New England themed interior, with bric-a-brac bought over from America, such as little gaff rigged model yachts, ship lanterns and gingham table cloths throughout, giving it a real American look and feel. The refurbishment has also incorporated a modern kitchen to deliver the venue’s exciting new food offer.
The exterior has undergone a refresh, introducing a herb terrace, in which will be grown herbs and spices to compliment the menu. In addition, the newly designed garden, boasts idyllic views over Lyme Bay, making for the perfect outdoor area and evening sunset spot.
Publican and experienced hotelier, restaurateur and trained chef, Daniel Boatwright, who also owns a local fish and chip shop, took over the pub in October 2017 and worked closely with his daughter, Sophie, to transform the business by introducing a cutting edge American themed seafood offer.
The innovative food offer includes New England clam chowder, Alaskan fried fish and chips and ‘naked’ fish. Daniel has also installed a hot smoker on the terrace, where he will serve up a number of BBQ smoked meats during the summer months.
Boatwright, said: “After living on the Route 16 scenic highway in New England for 11 years, I fell in love with the local American cuisine. When the opportunity arose, my family and I jumped at running this much loved local pub. We have previously run pubs in Kent and currently own a popular fish and chip shop in town. It will be an all family affair, as my daughter is keen to follow in our footsteps and will be managing the front of house.
“Ei Publican Partnerships has been very supportive throughout the process. The latest renovations will offer something different and special for locals and tourists alike, while the exciting outdoor space will be enjoyed in the summer, as well as a sunny winter afternoon.”
Ahead of the reopening, Daniel has developed a menu using famous Icelandic and Alaskan fish. Wherever possible ingredients will be sourced locally, including the potatoes from local producer Williams Potatoes and meats from the local butcher, Palks of Plainmoor.
The pub officially re-opened on the 12 December, when customers were offered a free sample of the new menu.
Alan Turner, Regional Manager at Ei Publican Partnerships added: “Daniel is the perfect example of the exemplary publicans we have in our estate – he already has a fantastic relationship with the local community from his experience with his other business in the area and has a wonderful story to tell.
“The exciting food offer, which includes his favourite dishes from his time in America, has been well received by the locals. I have no doubt he and his family will thrive at ROUTE 16 and I look forward to watching him flourish within the community.”