South Melbourne’s first British-Indian pub to open its doors

Nikita Kaur Chopra started her career in medical science. However, after years in the lab she felt herself becoming drawn to a career in hospitality.

Ms Chopra decided to take a leap, put the lab coat down and open Melbourne’s first British–Indian pub, The Black Prince. Following the success of that venue, she is now looking to make her mark on the city’s south.

On October 12, The London Arms, located at 160 Clarendon St at the western end of Southbank, will open its doors as Ms Chopra continues to share her love of British–Indian cuisine across the city.

“This is a dream project for us. It all came about because Melbourne is such an iconic city for sport, and we love Southbank,” she said.

You won’t find a premium British–Indian pub or restaurant in Australia at this level,” she added. “We’ve brought in celebrity chef consultants from India to design the menu, the drinks and the cocktails – even incorporating a few Indian fruits you can’t usually find here.

While scouting potential locations for a new venue, Ms Chopra found suitable sites in Sydney and the Gold Coast. However, she couldn’t bring herself to look beyond Melbourne.

“I love Melbourne,” she said. “My husband and I both lived in Southbank for two years. There’s something about Southbank, when you walk through it, you feel the energy.”

However, after COVID, Ms Chopra noticed a change in the area, with businesses struggling to bring in customers as the city recovered from the pandemic.

“I saw the empty trains, the closed coffee shops, the queues disappear. I knew what Southbank used to be, and it hasn’t fully returned yet,” she said.

“But I felt people were missing a spot where they could hang out and experience true Indian hospitality, which is welcoming, generous and filled with love. That’s what we want to create.”

It hasn’t all been smooth sailing for Ms Chopra, who noted that post-pandemic spending habits and weekly protests have affected business.

According to Ms Chopra, the key to overcoming these challenges has been creating a space where people feel comfortable and can enjoy quality time with their loved ones.

“They’re here to spend time with their family and loved ones, to enjoy the cuisine, but also to experience the ambience. That’s the most important part,” she said.

“Whether you’re coming with friends, colleagues, family or on a date, it’s all about the food, the conversation, and the vibe of the place. I think we’ve created something really special.” londonarms.com.au •