A former contestant from BBC’s The Apprentice is embarking on a new venture that contradicts Lord Alan Sugar’s advice to maintain his current job. Priyesh Bathia, who was eliminated from the competition, is set to launch a pub in South London this summer, featuring an Indian-inspired menu and a spacious beer garden.
Bathia, who previously worked as an account manager at PwC, was dismissed during the show’s interview stage after his mobile cocktail business failed to impress the judges. Now, he is collaborating with three business partners to open The Elephant & Barrel in Stockwell, which will take over the former Royal Oak pub, owned by Heineken’s Star Pubs.
Details of the New Pub
The Elephant & Barrel is scheduled to reopen in early June following a significant refurbishment costing £495,000. The establishment aims to merge traditional British pub culture with the flavors of Indian cuisine, offering a diverse menu that celebrates both culinary traditions.
Patrons can expect a lively atmosphere with quizzes, live music, and televised sports events, alongside a selection of local beers, craft ales, and cocktails. The venue will also feature a food truck serving a rotating menu that includes pizzas, jerk chicken, chicken tikka, and seasonal specials.
Unique Features and Community Focus
Designed to accommodate nearly 200 guests, the pub will have various seating options, including tables and benches. A standout feature will be a life-sized animatronic elephant, handcrafted in Kerala, which will be adorned with decorations for different occasions, such as wearing an England flag and jersey during the World Cup.
„The Elephant & Barrel will be family and dog-friendly, a place for the entire community to gather. Each pub in our chain is a true local establishment, enhanced by the inclusion of Indian dishes and a signature animatronic elephant that appeals to both children and adults,“ Bathia stated.
He further elaborated on their long-term vision, saying, „We have ambitious plans for the brand, but we are committed to a steady expansion, ensuring that each pub is well-established before pursuing additional locations. We are also exploring the possibility of a franchise model.“
Background of the Elephant & Barrel Concept
The Elephant & Barrel concept was initially developed by Kumar Pillai and Yogesh Datta, with Bathia and Karan Datta joining the team later. Currently, there are two other locations in Fulham and Felixstowe, both of which have seen considerable success.
Dugald Macer, the regional operations director for Star Pubs, expressed enthusiasm about the new venture, stating, „We’re thrilled that Priyesh, Kumar, Yogesh, and Karan are taking over what was The Royal Oak. Their previous Elephant & Barrel locations have thrived, and I am confident that the Stockwell site will follow suit. The menu will showcase the best of British and Indian cuisine, complemented by a wide range of premium beverages, including favorites from Brixton Brewery. I look forward to capturing a selfie next to the elephant when The Elephant & Barrel reopens and supporting the group in their expansion efforts.“
The series finale of The Apprentice is set to air on BBC One next Thursday, April 16, at 9 PM.
For those interested in sharing stories or insights, contact rebecca.mcculloch@reachplc.com. Stay informed about London’s most exciting events, new restaurant openings, and exclusive deals by subscribing to our Going Out Out newsletter.
Bildquelle: Foto von Virginia Marinova auf Unsplash
