After hearing talk about this hidden gem of a community boozer tucked away on a picturesque stretch of Oakbrook Road in Fulwood, Exposed popped down to The Wonky Labrador to see what all the fuss was about. Owner Mac McGrath warmly welcomed us with a pint and shared five key insights on how he brought his vision of a friendly neighbourhood watering hole to life.
The Importance of a Personal Touch
The name of the pub naturally stands out – in fact, it was recently confirmed to be the only Wonky Labrador Pub in existence! Beyond its uniqueness, the name holds personal significance. “One of my dad’s old dogs was a Labrador who went through a tough experience as a pup that left her a little wonky. She was an incredible dog who loved people – she’s the original Wonky Labrador!” Mac tells us.
He believes every pub owner should put a piece of themselves into their establishment. “It’s not about owning a pub just to say you own one. It’s about creating a space where you live and breathe it. It should be a place where you truly want to be and spend time.”
Visit The Wonky Labrador at 212 Oakbrook Rd, S11 7ED
A Relaxed Atmosphere
Following years spent working in corporate hospitality, his transition to running a micropub was partly inspired by visiting a friend’s bar in New Zealand. “I just wanted out from corporate hospitality because you’re a number rather than a person,” he explains. The impersonal nature of corporate work pushed him towards creating a space where people are valued as individuals. This in turn forms part of the pub’s philosophy: “It’s about making the space and experience about the people who come in, and everyone is made to feel welcome here. The atmosphere is one of the main things we get praised for.”
After spending time travelling and experiencing the laid-back pub cultures of Europe and New Zealand, Mac envisioned a place where patrons could truly relax. “You sit down, order, they bring it over to you and that’s what we do here. People aren’t used to it, so when they come in and head straight for the bar, we’re just like, ‘Wait, mate, we’ve got that covered. Take a seat, relax.’ It’s good to be able to do that; it allows people to focus more on their conversation with who they’re with or getting comfortable in their seat rather than queuing at a bar.”
Building Bridges Through Beer
The Wonky Labrador isn’t just about craft beers, though they do play a significant role. “We’ve done over 200 beers by keg now, in just over a year,” Mac notes. The pub continuously introduces new brews, ensuring there’s always something different for patrons to try. Mac’s own gluten-free requirement has also led to a dedicated gluten-free beer option always on draught and a good range of GF options in the fridge.
Mac also explains that connections with local brewers, producers and fellow micropubs has also been pivotal. He cites close relationships with breweries like Triple Point, Abbeydale and Saint Mars of the Desert, highlighting the pub’s dedication to quality and community support. “They’ve all been fantastic since we opened, and so have the other micropubs in the city. It’s great to feel like you’re part of a community in that sense; it can only benefit everyone when people pull together.”
Hiring the Right People
Mac’s approach to hiring staff is also important. He values personality over experience. “I hire a person, not the skills,” he says. “That can always come later, but getting the right people in is so much more important.” This approach has paid off, as his team members bring their unique personalities and passions, helping to mould the identity of the pub. “They’re all fantastic and get on great with the regulars and new customers love the type of friendly service we offer, too. I have fond memories of community-centred village pubs.”
Something For Everyone
To make the pub as inclusive as possible, there’s a commitment to ensuring there’s something for everyone to try out, whether you’re a keen beer drinker or not.
“But on that note, it’s important not to ram things down people’s throats,” he adds. “If someone is after a mainstream lager or cider that we don’t do, it’s not about scoffing or telling them it’s rubbish. The idea is to take a bit of time to get a feel for what they might like and then suggest something new. No judgement, just a friendly recommendation. Whether you fancy a wine or a cocktail, a beer or a cider, non-alcoholic or gluten-free, I can guarantee there’s always going to be something suitable and interesting for you here.”
For more information and to keep up with events ranging from wine tastings and meet the brewers to Mental Health Mondays, follow @thewonkylabrador.
thewonkylabrador.co.uk
212 Oakbrook Rd, S11 7ED
