Phoenix’s iconic George & Dragon English Pub and Restaurant, located at 4240 N. Central Ave., celebrated its 30th anniversary in February (photo by Kathryn M. Miller).
In February, North Central Phoenix staple George & Dragon English Pub and Restaurant celebrated its 30th anniversary. No small feat when, nationally, one in three bars/restaurants may not survive their first year. But owner David Wimberley had a dream of opening an English pub, and he has put in the time to make it a success.
“I’m always there,” Wimberley said. “I’m chatting with customers. I’m behind the bar, just chatting, bussing tables, talking to new people, making everyone feel comfortable. I always say when you walk in the pub, you leave your passport behind because you’re walking into a bit of England.”
Originally hailing from a small seaside town in England called Ramsgate, Wimberley landed in Phoenix 45 years ago to be close to his daughter. His next move? To realize that dream, “So, I moved in with my brother and my mother and we opened up a pub on my mother’s birthday, Feb. 15, 1995.”
Wimberley takes pride in serving delicious food (“Things I grew up with.”), proper pints and good times. Over the years, whether it is the English New Year at 5 p.m. Arizona time, or opening early for fans to cheer on favorite soccer/football teams, the pub has seen its share of celebrations. And another one is on the horizon – this time a St. George’s Day bash. Scheduled to begin at noon on Saturday, April 26, the event is in honor of England’s patron saint, who is depicted slaying a dragon in a mural that went up on the north wall of the pub in 2022. Patrons can expect close to a dozen bands performing live, a DJ and all-around great time.
George & Dragon is located at 4240 N. Central Ave. For more information, find them on Facebook (@gndpub), call 602-241-0018 or visit www.gndphx.com.
