IT was a successful opening weekend for a pub set to provide something "new and different" to Droitwich.

Worcester's Arch Rivals Micro Pub is breathing new life into a former Indian restaurant after opening its Droitwich branch last weekend.

Mike Davis, owner of the Worcester business, has joined forces with his brother-in-law Lee Payne, who formally owned The New Chequers near Astwood Roundabout, for the new venture.

Inside Droitwich's newest micropub. Inside Droitwich's newest micropub. (Image: Arch Rivals) The pair spent two weeks transforming the former Spice Fusion restaurant on St Andrew's Street into their micropub and were proud to welcome customers through its doors on Saturday. 

Mr Davis said: "We made it.

"It was a close call but our opening night (Friday) was amazing - such great support from our friends and family.

"Opening day (Saturday) had been wonderful.

ITS A BAR: Good luck balloons at the opening. ITS A BAR: Good luck balloons at the opening. (Image: Arch Rivals) "Lots of people are very happy to see something new and different arrive in Droitwich. 

"Lee is doing a wonderful job of welcoming everyone into the new venue and feedback has been even better than we could have hoped for."

The pair has installed a new bar area along the back of the building, which serves a number of craft beers for punters to enjoy. 

Outside the new venue. Outside the new venue. (Image: Arch Rivals) It is filled with chairs and tables and decorated with records, music posters, and the micro pub's merchandise. 

It also offers outdoor seating at the front of the building. 

Mr Davis set up Arch Rivals six years ago to provide a haven for people who love craft beer and classic rock and roll music. 

 

    What are your thoughts?    
        
    You can send a letter to the editor to have your say by clicking here.    
        
    Letters should not exceed 250 words and local issues take precedence.    
        

He added: "It’s an expansion of an independent Worcester-based business that has been successful now for six years.

"It’s two brother-in-laws getting together to make something exciting happen - my brother-in-law will be running the new pub, and we were once rivals ourselves as he was at The New Chequers in Worcester."

Spice Fusion closed after 11 years in the town due to rising costs and staff shortages. 

The restaurant closed for business on March 25, 2024.