Foundation Inns to launch Craft & Grill brand

The managed pub operator is converting its Noble Vine pub to a branded beer bar and smokehouse. It has stripped back the décor in the pub, installed two smokers in the kitchen and built a new bar to house a 30 strong selection of craft beers.

Menu items include smoked meat along with a ranger of burgers and steaks. The craft beer will include cask, keg and bottled brands.

Foundation Inns co-founder Ian Grundy said: "We see the opportunity to grow the Craft & Grill concept, in both fully branded and unbranded formats, if Walton proves to be as successful as we anticipate. We are well placed to expand quickly within suburban London and home county towns."

Grundy set up Foundation Inns, an Enterprise Investment Scheme company in 2007, with Gavin Drew. They also operate Flagstone Cask and Grill.