Braintree: Ocean's Braintree to have invite only VIP room

Entrepreneur Barrie Drewitt-Barlow has shared details on some of the exclusive offerings that his new venture, Ocean’s Braintree, will feature.

The grade II listed former Swan pub, in Bank Street, is set to become the exciting new dining destination with a hopeful launch for the Christmas trading period.

The restaurant will not only offer a fusion of Japanese and Caribbean inspired dishes but there will be a private VIP dining room that is not bookable at all.

Site - the building when it was previously known as The Swan (Image: Newsquest)

Barrie said: “The restaurant will be on two levels, with general dinning on the lower floors, and private VIP dinning on the first floor.

“There will be a special VIP dining room which is invitation only and will only be offered at the discretion of the manager.

“You cannot book this room, if it is free we will offer it to groups of eight plus as an option to the main dining area, when we have no other table available.

“On some special occasions, like Valentines Day, we will split the room up for couples to enjoy a special evening.

Exciting - Barrie Drewitt-Barlow (centre) and Ocean Chapman (right) with executive consultant chef to Ocean’s Braintree, David Woodford (left), former Master Chef Asia runner-up (Image: Barrie Drewitt-Barlow)

“We want you to get ready to lose yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ocean’s, as our energetic managers, talented table staff, and dynamic DJs create an experience to remember.”

Barrie is the investor behind Ocean’s Braintree, and it will be spearheaded by executive chef and business partner Ocean Chapman, from Braintree.

They met after both appearing on Channel 5’s Rich House, Poor House, which filmed last year.

A figure between £1.5million to £2million is being injected into the building to give it a new lease of life, while retaining its unique features.

After taking over the site officially on June 26, Barrie and Ocean were very aware of the previous bad reputation the former Swan pub had.

Barrie previously said that its reputation “would make your toes curl”.

However, he believes that residents are ready for something new with Ocean’s Braintree and the business is looking for staff to join the team.

Barrie said: “We believe that the greatest factor in the success of any business is because of the team.

“We work hard to attract, hire, mentor and provide growth opportunities for energetic hospitality driven individuals.

“We actively encourage you to make contact through our Facebook page if you feel Ocean’s is a good fit for you, we really want to hear from you.

“Ocean’s is an equal opportunities employer, and we actively encourage people from every walk of life to apply for the jobs that they think they will fit.”