A partnership between billionaire pub powerbroker Nick Politis and fast-growing venue group Artesian Hospitality is being seen as more than just another pub opening, with industry figures describing the move as a confidence play in South East Queensland’s night-life economy.
Their first freehold acquisition, a $4.74 million Surfers Paradise site set to be redeveloped into a new English-style pub ahead of Easter, signals that well-capitalised operators are once again backing bricks, mortar and scale in a region tipped for renewed hospitality growth.
Title documents show the property, on the corner of Orchid and Elkhorn avenues, was purchased in January by Polart Assets, an entity jointly held between Artesian Hospitality and NGP Investments, the investment vehicle owned by Politis, who is also chairman of the Sydney Roosters and the recent purchaser of Brisbane landmark The Caxton Hotel.
Managing Partner Matt Keegan said the acquisition marked a significant milestone for the Artesian group, which operates venues across Queensland including Gold Coast’s iconic Cali Beach and Brisbane’s GPO precinct, home to TAMA, The Tax Office and The Gatsby.
“This is our first freehold acquisition and a really important step for us as the group continues to grow,” Keegan said, adding that freehold ownership allowed the business to invest with a long-term mindset where it made strategic sense.
The Surfers Paradise site will be reborn as The Fig ’n’ Fox, a Modern English-style pub featuring indoor and outdoor dining areas, a games space with pool tables and electronic darts, and a basement live music venue capable of hosting hundreds of patrons.
Renders show a warm, moody fit-out inspired by traditional English locals, complete with classic booths and a feature bar.
“At its core, this is a proper British pub,” Keegan said. “Somewhere you can drop in for a pint, settle in for a Sunday roast, or spend the night with friends.”
Defit works are already underway, with an eight to 10-week construction period and an opening targeted ahead of the Easter rush, subject to approvals.
Food will play a central role, with Artesian promising a traditional English menu anchored by what it says will be “the best Sunday roast the Gold Coast has ever seen”.
The menu is being developed by Artesian group executive chef Richard Harris, formerly of the Rockpool Group, who hails from the UK.
“English pubs live and die by their food,” Harris said, pointing to classics including bangers and mash, beef and Guinness pies, fish and chips and Yorkshire puddings, alongside familiar Australian favourites.
While The Fig ’n’ Fox is just getting underway, Keegan said it was one of several projects in progress for the group.
“We’ve got a number of substantial developments underway across South East Queensland and beyond,” he said, adding further announcements would be made in coming weeks.
Originally published in Gold Coast Bulletin by Mike Gambaro. View online HERE.