Its selection of eight different gins including a non-alcoholic one has made Der Bär a popular new addition to Deal High Street.

The new business, situated opposite the market at the north end of the street, opened on July 17.

Proprietor John Turner said his aim was to try and create something different for the town and he hopes it is filling a gap.

He said: “You’ve got traditional pubs but we’ve a very different kind of feel. We’re more continental which is why we went with Der Bär.”

The name (pronounced “Dare Bear”) inspired the beers he and manager Stephen Withers chose to serve.

German beers, Belgian Pilsner and craft beers from around
the world join local ales on the menu.

They’ve also finely selected a whole back bar of other spirits and liqueurs including eight different types of gin such as Opihr and Monkey 47.

But it’s non-alcoholic gin Seedlip which has really got tongues wagging.

Mr Withers, who has worked at JD Wetherspoons pubs for the past seven years, said: “The non-alcoholic gin has been quite a hit particularly among pregnant women.

“They’ve spent the night drinking it and personally thanked us at the end.”

Originally working at The Solomon Cutler pub in Birmingham, he has been at The Sir Norman Wisdom in Queen Street for the last three years, where he worked his way up to assistant manager.

He said: “This business is about understanding what exactly it is the customer wants, and then delivering.

“We’ve had a great response from our customers so far about the choice of spirits, wines and beers that are available.”

The two floor venue is not serving food but bar snacks are available.

Mr Withers, a lifeboat volunteer, has introduced a sweet shop for customers where Skittles and Maltesers are available in exchange for a donation to the RNLI.

There is also a games cabinet complete with packs of cards and Pucket.

Mr Turner said: “There’s a very good ambience in here; we’re getting a cross-section of people from all age ranges and everybody seems to be getting a buzz off it.”