The Crossing, White Hart Lane, Barnes
25 October 2021
The Crossing on White Hart Lane in Barnes opened on 6th September as a quality neighbourhood family and dog-friendly pub following a closure of over two years, much to the delight of local residents. It had benefited from a top to toe £450,000 refurbishment, £265,000 of which was invested by Star Pubs & Bars and the remainder by restaurant, bar and hospitality operator, Christian Arden. 30 new and part-time jobs were created on the back of the opening.
Funds were spent reconfiguring the interior. There’s now a relaxed light, airy modern bar and dining area on the ground floor and a sumptuous, comfortable dining and event space for 60 with its own private bar on the first floor. The upstairs flexible space is to used as a social hub for weekly events such as premium sport games, quiz nights and book clubs and is offered to community groups for daytime use at no cost. It has also been fitted with USB ports so that it can be used as a workspace.
At the front of the pub, beneath shady awnings and shrub filled planters, there is fixed seating for up to 40 and at the rear a new garden terrace for 60 with an outdoor kitchen with bespoke grill and rotisserie. The secluded garden’s mosaic tile and inlaid terrace, lantern lights, hanging trailing greenery and locally curated planting create a magical atmosphere. Food is a key focus of the pub.
Christian says: “We have hit the market sweet spot, appealing to all ages from mothers dropping their kids off at school and young professionals to older residents who love the transformation from a dark and dingy pub to a light and airy environment. Despite issues with beer sales and energy supply, we are on target with our business plan and word of mouth is spreading about the quality of our food, drink and overall offer. Food is the heart of the business with only freshly prepared meals made from the best ingredients. This is supplemented by a high-quality wine list showcasing small lesser known growers alongside some big name classics.
“Sustainability has been key to the planning. Pubs have always been a great example of sustainable leadership with beer drawn from re-useable kegs and served in glasses that are washed. There is very little waste. I want The Crossing to set an example. Our cellar has a Smart Dispense system which produces consistent superior quality draught beer and cider whilst reducing waste, water and energy consumption.’