Wetherspoons has made a historic leap beyond its traditional strongholds in the United Kingdom and Ireland, launching its inaugural European pub at Alicante Airport on Monday morning. This momentous occasion was witnessed firsthand by Mirror News food editor Joe Rintel, who sampled the menu and assessed the pricing to provide an in-depth look at what patrons can expect.
A British Oasis in Spanish Territory
Benidorm is widely regarded as Continental Europe's undisputed capital of British cuisine, boasting an abundance of Full English breakfasts and Sunday roasts along its vibrant strip. This culinary tradition now extends to Alicante Airport, where the new Wetherspoons pub, named Castell de Santa Bàrbera after a nearby mountain fortress, welcomed its first customers. Daz Sunderland earned the distinction of being the maiden paying customer, enjoying a refreshing pint of lager to mark the opening.
The establishment seamlessly blends British charm with Spanish influences. Bilingual menus, a dedicated Spanish tortilla offering, and multilingual staff who effortlessly switch between languages highlight its local adaptation. Despite these nods to its Spanish setting, the pub remains quintessentially British at its core, featuring classic British fare alongside familiar beverages like Stella Artois and Old Speckled Hen.
Drinks Menu: A Focus on Lager and Value
Given its compact size compared to typical UK high street branches, the pub's tap capacity is limited, resulting in a draught selection focused solely on lagers—a practical choice for Alicante's typically warm climate. The available beers include Cruzcampo Especial at €4.95, Amstel Original at €5.95, Stella Artois at €5.95, Guinness at €7.50, and Leffe Blonde at €7.95.
Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the affordability, with options like Viña Lobera Verdejo Ecológico at €3.65 for a 125ml glass—a rarity in European airports. The spirits and mixers follow a fixed-price structure, charging €6.95 for a 25ml serving with a mixer and €9.95 for a double. Selections range from Beverly peach liqueur to Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla. Notably, the pub does not offer complimentary tap water, directing customers to purchase bottled water instead.
Food Menu: British Classics with Spanish Flair
For aficionados of Wetherspoons' hearty fare, the menu delivers with several Spanish-inspired touches while predominantly showcasing beloved British dishes. Breakfast options include a traditional fry-up with fried egg, bacon, Lincolnshire sausage, baked beans, hash browns, and toast for €10.25, alongside vegetarian and vegan variations. Small plates feature Spanish tortilla at €4.95 and garlic prawns at €12.45, while burgers and chicken dishes, such as the classic beef burger at €12.95 and all-day brunch at €12.95, round out the offerings.
This expansion not only caters to British expatriates and tourists but also introduces Spanish locals to iconic British pub culture. With its strategic airport location, Wetherspoons is poised to become a popular stop for travelers seeking a taste of home or an authentic British dining experience abroad.
