North London pub operator Heath Ball is set to add another jewel to his growing Frisco Pubs empire, as he prepares to open The Angel Inn in Highgate this November.
Ball, already well known for running the acclaimed Red Lion & Sun on North Road, will officially take over The Angel Inn on 4 November. The move marks his second Highgate pub and his fourth venue overall under the Frisco Pubs banner.
A Sister Site to the Red Lion & Sun
The Angel Inn is just 200 yards away from the Red Lion & Sun, but Ball sees the proximity as an opportunity rather than a challenge.
“While the two pubs are close together, it gives me a great opportunity to provide a ‘little sister’ site to the Red,” he explained. “It doesn’t seem to have done Tom Kerridge any harm in Marlow, with three pubs almost on the same road.”
With the new space, Ball plans to explore offerings that the Red Lion & Sun simply doesn’t have room for — such as a breakfast and brunch menu. He envisions The Angel as a more relaxed, welcoming option, while still delivering the same strong focus on quality food, drink, and atmosphere.
Building the Frisco Pubs Brand
Frisco Pubs already operates:
- The Red Lion & Sun (Highgate, North London)
- The Wenlock Arms (Hoxton, East London)
- The Lockhart (Haywards Heath, West Sussex)
The Angel Inn will become the group’s fourth site, with Ball planning a light trade period until the New Year, before launching a full refurbishment and refreshed offer.
“We’re excited to take on this sister site to the Red,” said Ball. “We’re looking forward to offering more people the opportunity to experience our great food and hospitality services in Highgate.”
