Yes, there are lots of "gastropubs", but wouldn't call it boom time. I wouldn't call them pubs either, myself. I'm a real ale (and quality lager, world beer, wine & spirits) man, and unfortunately Britain now drinks less alcohol than at any time since just after World War One, and it's still going down. Not the best time to be trying to sell beer at £3, to make £1 gross profit, before paying £180 in rent, £50 in rates, £35 in gas/electric, £100 in wages. Before you think "that's not so bad" those figures are per day. £10k a week turnover wasn't enough to make a profit, so I jacked it in before turnover got too low. Best thing I ever did. now working 35 hour week for a reasonable salary, with weekends off, and 5 weeks' holiday. I don't know what to do with all this spare time :-)
Yes, there are lots of "gastropubs", but wouldn't call it boom time. I wouldn't call them pubs either, myself. I'm a real ale (and quality lager, world beer, wine & spirits) man, and unfortunately Britain now drinks less alcohol than at any time since just after World War One, and it's still going down. Not the best time to be trying to sell beer at £3, to make £1 gross profit, before paying £180 in rent, £50 in rates, £35 in gas/electric, £100 in wages. Before you think "that's not so bad" those figures are per day. £10k a week turnover wasn't enough to make a profit, so I jacked it in before turnover got too low. Best thing I ever did. now working 35 hour week for a reasonable salary, with weekends off, and 5 weeks' holiday. I don't know what to do with all this spare time :-)