The Artesian-Politis partnership has opened its forecast ode to the British pub on the Gold Coast, welcoming guests into the Fig ‘n Fox.
At the start of the year Nick Politis partnered with Artesian Hospitality to purchase a former microbrewery site on the corner of Elkhorn and Orchid Avenues, in the heart of Surfers Paradise, for $4.74 million.
The acquisition was under Polart Assets – jointly owned by Artesian and Politis’ NGP Investments.
They swiftly set about a transformation, gutting the premises and effectively starting “from scratch” to create a two-level English-style pub to be known as the Fig ’n Fox, for 600-pax patrons of the golden coast, and for homesick British expats.
The Fox offers games areas, with electronic darts and pool tables, but its primary focus is to give guests a “proper treat” courtesy of a traditional English menu, served in both indoor and outdoor dining spaces.
Beyond the fish and chips with mushy peas, Scotch eggs and Yorkshire pudding, the headline star is the “best Sunday roast”, all steered by Artesian Group’s executive chef, UK-born Richard Harris (formerly Rockpool).
Punters can wash it down with a selection of “perfectly poured pints” and be entertained by the sounds of Britpop.
And furthering the entertainment, below street level is large capacity underground dive bar, Timmy’s Tea Room, hosting live music belting out throwbacks and covers aiming to transport people to the UK.
Soft opening this month, The Fox has struggled to stay out of sight. The first Sunday roast reportedly sold out by 5pm due to the demand. The following Sunday had queues at the door.
The Fig ‘n Fox is the ninth venue for Artesian, which already operates across Queensland, including Brisbane’s GPO precinct, and Surfers Paradise sister venues Surfers Pavilion and the iconic Cali Beach Club.
However, The Fox is Artesian’s first freehold, which managing partner Matt Keegan explains was a strategic decision enabling them to invest long-term and grow in a region seeing a major surge in hospitality.
Billionaire Nick Politis, chairman of the Sydney Roosters and already an established pub powerbroker, having recently purchased Brisbane’s Caxton Hotel for $50 million, has demonstrated faith in Artesian’s approach to become a stakeholder in the venue.
His hands full with what’s appearing to be a runaway success, Keegan says the reception has been “nothing short of amazing”.
