A cherished Cheltenham pub, The Tavern, has made a welcome comeback just two months after closing earlier this year. The pub, located on Royal Well Place, had saddened locals when it shut down in January due to circumstances beyond the previous owners' control after only a year in operation.
Fortunately, the closure was short-lived. The Tavern has now reopened under the stewardship of Jay Rahman and JM Socials, a company managing ten pubs and restaurants across Cheltenham and Oxford. Partnering with Jay is the talented husband-and-wife culinary duo Thomas and Kathryn Law, who will lead the kitchen.
Thomas Law, known locally as head chef of the popular Indian restaurant Privthi—also owned by JM Socials—brings extensive experience and passion. Kathryn Law, meanwhile, has a prestigious background managing kitchens in some of the Cotswolds' finest pubs and hotels. Together, they are committed to restoring The Tavern as a cornerstone of the Cheltenham community by emphasizing quality and locally sourced ingredients.
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Reopening on March 6, aptly timed for Cheltenham Festival week, The Tavern has immediately been met with enthusiasm. General manager Sam Noar expressed delight at the positive reception, recalling one customer’s heartfelt comment that his household had been “in mourning” since the pub’s closure.
“The Tavern is an institution in Cheltenham,” Sam said. “We want to respect its heritage while making subtle enhancements—like bringing back live music and pub quizzes—to elevate the customer experience.”
The menu remains true to its gastropub roots, retaining beloved classics alongside refreshed favourites. Thomas Law added, “We’re proud to work with local suppliers to ensure quality in every dish while preserving the warm, welcoming atmosphere people love.”
Jay Rahman affirmed JM Socials’ commitment: “Reopening The Tavern is about returning this Cheltenham favourite to the heart of the community, injecting fresh energy and ambition into one of the town’s most cherished institutions.”
The Tavern’s bar highlights the best of the region’s craft producers, featuring rotating guest taps from Cheltenham’s DEYA Brewery, Lost & Grounded, Arbor, as well as beloved local ales including Cotswold Lion, Goffs, and HPA.
With renewed spirit and community focus, The Tavern looks set to thrive once again as a hub for good food, good drink, and great company.