Too often do we see pubs closing down these days. From traditional boozers to family-friendly gastropubs, few places feel safe from financial insecurity as our favourite locals boarded up around the city. But the Oxford-based Dodo Pub Co. are bringing some good news to Bristol’s pub circuit.
The much-loved Cross Hands in Fishponds shut its doors in February, but Dodo Pub Co. have stepped in to save this local drinking hole. It’s their first location in Bristol and seventh in total – with three in Oxford and one each in Cheltenham, Witney and Caversham – looking to open in May. Continuing its quirky naming conventions (Our favourites include The Up In Arms and The Last Crumb), they will rename it the All Inn.
“We’ve been wanting to find the right place for a Dodo pub in Bristol for several years now,” said co-founder Leo Johnson. “Two of us lived there for a while and we all love its vibrancy and the feeling of inclusion that seems to permeate the city. It’s got a great mix of pubs, bars and restaurants, and we firmly believe that our neighbourhood vibe will fit right in.”
Located on Staple Hill Road in Fishponds, the All Inn will continue the Dodo Pub Co’s traditional, yet quirky aesthetics. Like at its other locations, regulars can expect a wide selection of craft beers, authentic Neapolitan pizza and its signature dirty Dodo Burgers.
Dodo Pub Co. opened its first pub, The Rusty Bicycle, in 2009 after Leo Johnson and Chris Manners returned from university with the aim to revive a down and out boozer. Since then they have continued to give a second life to several locals with one simple goal. “To create great neighbourhood pubs, for the people of that neighbourhood to eat, drink and be social.”
The All Inn will open its doors in May with an ‘all out’ launch party. To learn more about Dodo Pub Co. head here.