Restaurant returns to pub past with former name reinstated

The Devi Lounge opened on Elliott Street in 2024, after The Milan Bar, which had been occupying the building, shut down.

New signage at the pub (Image: Devonshire Arms)

It was opened in a joint venture between the owners of Bad Manners, a restaurant formerly in Grotton and K's Lounge Bar, Grill and Indian Restaurant.

The restaurant was opened under the name Devi Lounge in a nod to the building's former life as The Devonshire Arms, which was open between the 1960s and 80s.

Inside The Devonshire Arms (Image: Devonshire Arms)

Now, the business has gone a step further and fully rebranded back to The Devonshire Arms.

Announcing the change on social media, the owners said: "The Devi Lounge is turning back the clock and bringing back a true local legend…The Devonshire Arms Pub & Kitchen.

"A name that dates all the way back to the 1960s right here in Lees, this isn’t just a rebrand, it’s a revival.

Inside The Devonshire Arms (Image: Devonshire Arms)

"Same spot, brand new energy.

"Bigger vibes, better food, great drinks, and an atmosphere that brings the past and present together.

"If you know, you know… and if you don’t, you’re about to.

"The Devonshire Arms is back.

"Let’s go."

The pub still serves food, and a new menu has been revealed on social media, including pub classics and modern house twists.

The pub has shared that prices for pints start at £2.50, which one person reacted to, saying it was 'really cheap'.

The beer garden (Image: Devonshire Arms)

People shared their reactions to the news, with one woman saying: "This makes me happy, I have so many fond memories of the Devonshire, can’t wait to come see what you’ve done with the place."

The pub also has a beer garden, which opened on Easter Monday (April 6).

One woman shared her thoughts after visiting the updated venue and said the food was 'exceptional' and that the staff were 'really welcoming'.