An Australian themed pub is set to reopen after closing during the Coronavirus pandemic, serving some of the best steaks the area has to offer.
The Outback, in Marshchapel, is owned and run by former Aussie resident Frank Walsh who has returned to England after 15 years spent down under. Frank first opened the restaurant back in June 2020, but soon had to close due to the enforcement of lockdown rules.
However, he is now back and can’t wait to welcome customers back through the door. With aims of opening just before Christmas, Frank has got plenty of work to do before he can start serving his famous steaks again.
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He said: “We are looking to reopen the pub now Covid has gone and can’t wait to welcome people back. When we first opened back in 2020, Covid destroyed us. There was a lot of pressure on myself and the team for a number of reasons so in the end we had to close.”
Having taken time out in Ireland, where he is also setting up a similar venue, Frank is feeling refreshed and is happy to be back. “I’m pleased to be back in Marshchapel. I needed to get my head in the right space to do this and I feel as though it is now.”
He added: “We’re hoping to reopen in time for Christmas and we’ve already had lots of interest from people who say they can’t wait for us to be open again. It’ll be as good as it was when we first opened with some of the best steaks and live music too.
“There will be lots to look forward to in time.” Hoping to live up to what he has planned, Frank is positive about opening for the second time. “The first time was a real learning curve for me, but now I know the community and they know me I think we’re in a good place.
“I wouldn’t do this unless I was certain it would work and I’m just excited to welcome people to what is a steak lover’s paradise.” Whilst he remains positive about the new look Outback, Frank admits that it isn’t as easy as it once was to make a success of a village pub.
“It’s really tough to do well, but every village should have at least one pub in my opinion. Places are closing every where and it can be a miracle to keep them open sometimes.
“If I’m honest, I nearly gave up on it all at one point, but there is something so magical about this building that means I won’t give in.” Built in 1710, the Outback is one of the oldest buildings in Marshchapel, providing a unique atmosphere for Frank.
(Image: Rick Byrne / GrimsbyLive)
“I have never been in a pub that feels as good as this one. There’s something in these walls that just makes it great, this place means so much to me.” However, Frank does worry that Airbnbs pose a threat that wasn’t around when he first opened.
“These short term lets are providing people with free food or drink sometimes, which puts us at a massive disadvantage. Do we need to start offering a free night’s stay if people buy a pint and some food to compete?
“It’s a big problem that is causing a lot of issues for village pubs like this. If you look at Grainthorpe or Covenham nearby, they haven’t got a village pub, but I don’t think they can if this carries on, my big problem is where does it stop?”
Despite this, Frank is focused on making the outback a favourite amongst locals and those in the surrounding area. “I’m feeling very excited about welcoming people back and we have 100 percent belief in what we’re doing here.”
