Family give former Indian restaurant a new lease of life as pub

Until about six months ago, the Country Inn in Waltham Chase was an Indian restaurant.

The team decided to close up shop and the new owner Ali Ozdemir seized the opportunity to create the family pub he has always dreamt of running.

Ali and his family moved in above the pub and Ali spent six months replacing the pubs flooring with new wooden floors, installing wood burners and re-decorating the venue.

Christine Bailey, bar supervisor said: ‘We are a traditional, family friendly pub.

‘Ali fitted beautiful new windows and our two large fireplaces have big wood-burners which kick out so much heat.

‘It’s a lovely atmosphere and we’ve had a fantastic response from the locals, who really want this pub to work.’

The pub has a newly landscaped garden, children’s play area and even a chicken run.

The menu offers a choice of either traditional pub grub or special Cypriot cuisine.

Christine said: ‘All of the food is completely fresh, not frozen. The chips are peeled and ready for chipping each morning and the fish is tender and delicious.’

The pub opened just four weeks ago, and Christine said the team have been rushed off their feet.

She added: ‘We’ve been so busy. Word of mouth is quite incredible as are the powers of curiosity.

‘We’re in a prime location on a main road.

‘The building has gone from hand to hand in the last 20 years but since we’ve opened people have really welcomed the idea are so keen on trying our guest ales each week as well as our premium offerings.

‘If you’re in the area, drop in and see for yourself!’