New Gastropub Set For Town Centre

Work is underway to create an new pub in the town centre which will open in early November.

Small independent pub chain Aspley Pubs has acquired the former Loch Fyne restaurant in Fore Street and is currently refurbishing the venue to create a relaxing meeting place for locals named The Hummingbird, creating 35 new jobs.

Aspley Pubs’ managing director Andrew Coath said: "The Hummingbird is going to look amazing and will celebrate the very best in British design. It will feel warm and welcoming and feature a striking central bar and elegant but informal dining areas."

The Hummingbird is the company’s first opening in Hertfordshire. Established in 2015 the company has 10 other pubs in areas including London’s Chelsea Design Quarter, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Oxfordshire and Northamptonshire.

The Hummingbird’s new general manager is Jan Nova, who has worked in the hospitality industry, both in venues in the UK and Europe, for over 15 years. Nova said: "Hertford is a fantastic town and we can’t wait to open the doors to The Hummingbird and welcome local people in."

Head chef at The Hummingbird is Adam O’'Sullivan, who has 18 years' experience as a chef and is from Bishop Stortford. O’'Sullivan and his team will be serving up a seasonally changing menu and delicious daily changing specials. He says: "We have a fantastic menu planned for The Hummingbird offering pub classics with a twist alongside dishes with a global influence."