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Wolverhampton pub turns to desi grill cuisine

Plans are underway to reopen the Boat Inn pub in Wolverhampton as a desi mixed grill restaurant.

July 19, 2025 at 05:00 AM

Desi grill plans for empty Wolverhampton canalside pub

Plans are underway to revive a closed pub in Wolverhampton as a desi mixed grill venue.

Wolverhampton pub set to reopen as desi mixed grill restaurant

A planning application submitted to the City of Wolverhampton Council seeks permission to reopen the Boat Inn in Wednesfield as a desi mixed grill restaurant. The pub, which has been closed since 2020, was previously approved for reopening in 2024, but those plans never materialized. If approved, the new establishment would operate from 10am to 11.30pm Monday to Wednesday, and extend its closing time to 1.30am on weekends. Desi pubs have become increasingly popular in the Black Country, typically offering Indian dishes alongside traditional drinks. The application emphasizes that food service will complement the pub’s community function, with options for dining in or takeaway, plus delivery via services like Deliveroo and Just Eat.

Key Takeaways

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Boat Inn aims to reopen as a desi mixed grill restaurant.

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The pub has been closed since 2020 after earlier reopening plans failed.

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Proposed opening hours extend into the early morning on weekends.

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Desi pubs are increasingly popular in Wolverhampton and surrounding areas.

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Application emphasizes community pub function alongside food service.

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Delivery options will include services like Deliveroo and Just Eat.

"The primary use of the building will remain as a community pub with the majority of sales expected to come from the pub use."

This highlights the intention to maintain the pub's community-centric character while introducing new offerings.

"Delivery will be outsourced to companies such as Deliveroo and Just Eat within a small delivery radius."

This points to a modern approach to convenience and food service in the proposed establishment.

The revival of the Boat Inn as a desi mixed grill restaurant reflects a broader trend in Wolverhampton where diverse culinary offerings are gaining traction. This move not only aims to reactivate an unused space but also to cater to the growing demand for Indian cuisine in the region. Yet, the project faces challenges, especially in ensuring that it attracts a loyal customer base while balancing the needs of neighborhood parking and potential noise concerns. As tastes evolve, communities must adapt to new types of dining experiences.