Wetherspoon has recently inaugurated its inaugural pub in Europe, which features a traditional English breakfast menu. This new establishment, located at Spain’s Alicante airport, is anticipated to be a popular destination for British travelers heading to tourist hotspots like Benidorm.
The pub, named Castell de Santa Bàrbera, boasts a unique ambiance with Spanish tiles and cream paintwork, diverging from the typical Wetherspoon decor. While the menu offers several familiar items, such as a Spoons’ curry with a Japanese twist, it does not include the classic British fish and chips due to the absence of a deep fat fryer.
Despite some menu variations, around 90% of the usual Wetherspoon offerings are available, including a traditional breakfast comprising fried eggs, bacon, sausage, and baked beans for 10.25 euros. The pub operates seven days a week from 6am to 9pm, providing indoor seating along with an outdoor terrace.
Founder Tim Martin expressed enthusiasm about the Spain venture, hinting at potential future expansions overseas, especially at airports. The opening drew positive responses from early customers, including returning British tourists who appreciated the familiar Wetherspoon experience abroad.
The Alicante pub is strategically positioned to cater to the high influx of British visitors to the Costa Blanca region, served by various airlines offering direct flights. Wetherspoon’s expansion plans include partnering with franchise operators, aiming to open approximately 30 pubs in the coming year, creating job opportunities and enhancing the brand’s presence.