The Font was a big favourite across the Leicester bar scene but the space hasn’t been left empty for long as The Gate is due to open in their former building in the next few days (w/c 18 September). Eager to find out more we caught up with the pub’s owners, Cole Bentley and Lee Rudkin, to get an exclusive insight into what you can expect!

the gate Leicester

What can people expect from The Gate?
We aim to be a community led old school public house! We have something for everyone – our ethos is very much home from home. So expect “What Mum would make” to be a regular occurrence on our menu.

How long have you been working on the refurb?
We viewed the property in the middle of August and so we’ve been working flat out for the past 4 weeks to make sure that we have a very quick turn around. 

The Font had a great following, will their old regulars be happy with the new venue?
We hope so! We aren’t differentiating from The Font’s offer majorly and we want to have that regular vibe! We would expect everyone to know not just us but our team by their names (without the prompt of a name badge).


What inspired you most when coming up with the concept for The Gate?
We want to take the pub industry back a few years before it all got very regimented and universal. A home from home is our ethos and we want our customers to feel like we are welcoming them to our own lounge. 


What will be the stand out item that you serve in terms of food & drink?
We have quite a few exciting items up and coming on the food & drink front! I don’t want to give too much away but Karma Cola is on the list! We loved the art work so much, we got a spray artist over from Fargo Village in Coventry to do a mural of the design! We also will be selling a range of spirits that is made from Sweet Potatoes so again we can’t wait to showcase those.
When will you be opening?
We are anticipated to let the doors open middle of next week (w/c 18 September)! Freshers week will be so key for us due to the location so we are aiming to make a real fuss of ourselves then!

If you had to choose one album that would soundtrack The Gate, what would it be?
With the space that we have we would say acoustic covers! The beauty of the building would really echo it throughout without being too daunting! 


Where are your other favourite bars/restaurants in Leicester?
I am a massive gin fan myself so I would automatically rate 45 West. My usual haunt though is The Queen of Bradgate – I do love a White Rioja.


How can people find out more?
If you follow our Facebook page, that’s the best way! We update that more frequently than I have a coffee.

The Gate will open on 52 Gateway Street, Leicester, LE2 7DP