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Wetherspoon Menu Secrets: Sir Tim Martin Reveals His Favourite Pub Meals
JD Wetherspoon’s chairman, Sir Tim Martin, has unveiled his preferred choices from the pub chain’s extensive menu, detailing his go-to selections for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The prominent pub figure disclosed his food and beverage preferences during a conversation at one of his establishments, The Moon Under Water.
Sir Tim Martin’s Wetherspoon Food and Drink Choices
Speaking about his beverage choices, the 69-year-old businessman stated, “If I am enjoying a pint in the evening, it would typically be Abbot Ale, perhaps two. However, during the daytime, I would opt for a Pepsi Max or a coffee, I must admit.”
Regarding his meal selections, Sir Tim elaborated, “For breakfast, my ideal choice is the ‘small breakfast’, which I consider a truly satisfying morning meal. Lunch for me would be a southern-fried chicken wrap accompanied by a fresh salad. In the evening, if available, I would choose fish and chips. Alternatively, a steak and kidney pie, being slightly lower in calories, is another favoured option.”
Unique Wetherspoon Carpets: A Design Feature
In a discussion about the distinctive features of Wetherspoon pubs, Sir Tim also drew attention to the unique carpets found in each location. He explained to the Daily Star how these carpets, along with the broader pub design, are intentionally chosen to reflect the local history and the specific building’s heritage.
He elaborated on the design philosophy, saying, “In our design approach, we aim to create pubs with individual character and an aesthetic that connects to the surrounding area and the building’s historical context.”
Many patrons may be unaware that each Wetherspoon carpet is a custom-made piece, costing between £20,000 and £30,000. These bespoke carpets are partially handcrafted by the esteemed firm Axminster.
Guinness Popularity: A Trend in British Pubs
Sir Tim also offered his insights into the surging popularity of Guinness in pubs across Britain.
“It seems that every few years, a particular product gains significant traction. We’ve seen Guinness sales increase by 80 to 90% compared to five years prior. Before Guinness, gin experienced a similar boom,” he noted.
“Gin rose from a modest seller to become a leading choice, surpassing even vodka. Prior to that, Smirnoff Ice was highly fashionable, and before that, Magners cider over ice – trends emerge in unexpected ways,” he added.
“There appear to be cyclical trends influencing consumer preferences, with Guinness currently in favour. While Guinness will undoubtedly strive to maintain this popularity, there is always a trending product that captures public attention. This phenomenon extends beyond fashion items like bell-bottom trousers or dyed hair, and is also evident in the realm of beers and beverages.”
Wetherspoon Navigates Guinness Supply Challenges
Despite the broad popularity and reported nationwide shortages of Guinness over the Christmas period, Sir Tim mentioned that Wetherspoon pubs largely avoided supply disruptions, unlike many other establishments. Wetherspoon operates a network of over 800 pubs throughout the UK.
Reflecting on his family connection to Guinness, he shared, “My father was employed by Guinness for 31 years, which supported my education, so I have a positive predisposition towards them. We maintained a good supply, experiencing only minor and temporary shortfalls.”
He clarified the supply issues, stating, “I understand the shortages were not geographically specific but rather affected businesses whose Guinness supply relied on wholesalers. Some wholesalers may have experienced stock depletion, whereas our supply chain involves more direct negotiations.”