Former Waitresses Revive Iconic Pie Restaurant in Essex

Two former waitresses have successfully reopened The Pipe of Port, a beloved restaurant in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, known for its famous pies. After closing its doors in April 2023, the restaurant has returned to the community, thanks to the determination and efforts of Julie Howe and Debbie Knight.

Howe and Knight utilized their redundancy payments along with community fundraising to finance the reopening. “We were so worried when we found out about the closure, but Julie and I were determined to make this work,” Knight stated. The pair felt a profound responsibility to the many patrons who have cherished the restaurant over the years.

Community Support Fuels Reopening

The reopening effort received a significant boost from a fundraising evening and online donations, which collectively raised £16,000. Howe described this financial support as “an absolute lifesaver.” Initially, the waitresses believed they could manage the costs independently. However, as they delved deeper into the project, it became clear that additional resources were essential.

“We both felt very uncomfortable about the crowdfunding page; it didn’t seem right to ask people to contribute to a business,” Howe explained. “But we couldn’t believe the amount of support, both financially and physically, that people have given us.” This outpouring of community backing has been a testament to the restaurant’s enduring significance in the area.

The Pipe of Port first opened its doors in 1976 and was later acquired in 1981 by Steve and Sue Jones, along with Sue’s sister Janet. Over the decades, the restaurant gained a reputation for its delicious pies and inviting atmosphere, characterized by candlelit tables and sawdust on the floor. The couple’s daughter, Layla Tydeman, has also returned to work behind the bar, expressing her delight in the restaurant’s revival. “If anyone else had taken it over, it wouldn’t be the same—Debbie and Julie have The Pipe in their hearts,” Tydeman remarked.

A Family Legacy Reimagined

The support for Howe and Knight has extended beyond financial contributions. Many regular patrons, including professionals such as lawyers and accountants, have offered their expertise to ensure the restaurant’s successful relaunch. “We’ve just been so fortunate with the support we’ve had,” Knight noted. “Everyone looked into everything for us to make sure it was not just about keeping The Pipe of Port alive, but also making sound business decisions.”

Having worked at The Pipe of Port for over 36 years, Knight emphasized the emotional connection she and Howe have with the establishment. “It’s part of my core. We feel like a family here,” she said, highlighting the close-knit community that has rallied around them.

The reopening of The Pipe of Port marks a significant moment for both the waitresses and the local community, rekindling fond memories and ensuring that the restaurant continues to be a cherished gathering place for years to come.