A LANDMARK North East bar, which was restored to its former glory last year, is raising a glass to celebrate being voted the “Pub with the Best Pint.”
The City Tavern at Northumberland Road, Newcastle beat of competition from more than 1000 pubs across the UK to take the honour in the Star Pubs & Bars awards organised by Heineken.
The pub is run by North East entrepreneur David King, who has a long history of working in the industry and was behind some of the region’s most innovative watering holes.
The City Tavern, widely recognised for its Tudor style façade, was taken over by Mr King early in 2014 and then enjoyed a £450k refurbishment to create a state-of-the-art bar, while still retaining the venue’s historic features.
And it was Mr King’s commitment to producing the perfect pint which led to him winning the fiercely contested award, with the pub’s beer judged against stringent criteria including taste, smell and temperature, along with staff knowledge and service.
Judges were also impressed with the fact the bar offered 10 cask ales and ciders and also offered three house ales, which were brewed exclusively for The City Tavern.
“We are absolutely delighted to have won this award, which is acknowledgement of the commitment we have to pulling the perfect pint every time,” said David.
“We pride ourselves on giving customers a great experience and for that to be recognised in the face of so much competition from around the UK is fantastic, not just for us but for the region.”
David received the prestigious award at a gala celebration night in Liverpool from celebrity chef Simon Rimmer, where he was also recognised as a finalist in two other categories for best-trained staff and best retailer.
Star Pubs & Bars Trading Director, Chris Jowsey added: “The hallmark of a great pub is a great pint and the City Tavern serves one of the best in the country with beers to satisfy all palates, delivery and standards that are second to none and staff that clearly care.”
This is not the first time The City Tavern has enjoyed victory in these awards however, having last year taken the title of Retailer of the Year.