Mr Fogg's Tavern will be taking over the space that used to be The Crusting Pipe in Covent Gardem

A few weeks ago, we told you about the closure of The Crusting Pipe, a mainstay of Covent Garden for over 45 years. It was sad to see it go but, in fairness, the last time we were in the area, it was almost empty. 

But now, we already know what's taking its place - it's the latest opening from Mr Fogg's. They're a group that have taken over quite a few difficult sites and made a success of them, so perhaps they're the ones who can bring some life back to this part of Covent Garden. If you're unaware of them, they're a series of bars inspired by Phileas Fogg and the bars are supposedly full of trinkets he brought back from his travels. As a result, the designs of the bars are very eclectic and there's an immersive feel to them. 

Each one has a different name, like the "Botanical Tavern" or the "Society of Exploration" and this site is planned to be their flagship "Mr Fogg's Tavern". They'll be fitting in 130 people and there's a big terrace space in the covered courtyard, fitting in 65 more. 

So it's good to see such a prominent place so quickly back in action.