Robin Johnson sits down with Paddy Piggott to break down how he went from washing dishes during a recession to opening one of Hastings’ most well known bars.
Paddy shares how he started with no qualifications, worked his way through kitchens and bars, and spotted the opportunity to open the Dragon Bar. He explains the reality of building a venue from an empty 1820 storage unit, digging out the basement by hand, and creating a space that has lasted over 20 years.
This conversation focuses on what it takes to run a bar long term. Paddy talks through staffing challenges, rising costs, regulations, and why the industry is harder now than when he started. He also explains why bars succeed or fail, and why creating the right atmosphere matters more than anything else.
Alongside the business, Paddy shares stories from years behind the bar, the culture of Hastings, and why risk, travel, and experience matter more than playing it safe.
Key Topics Covered
- Starting in hospitality with no qualifications during a recession
- Working in kitchens and bars and learning through experience
- The culture and late night scene at Harper’s in Hastings
- Opening the Dragon Bar and finding the right location
- Renovating an empty unit and building the bar by hand
- Creating a space that attracts loyal customers and strong staff
- Managing staff and building a team with personality and energy
- The financial reality of running a bar and rising operating costs
- Regulations, taxes, and why the industry is harder today
- Differences between running a bar and a restaurant
- Why atmosphere and experience drive repeat customers
- The impact of social media and changing nightlife culture
- Lessons from travel, risk taking, and personal growth
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Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love.
Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms.
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Key Moments:
00:00 Introduction to Paddy Piggott and early career
00:34 Starting work as a dishwasher during a recession
01:31 Harper’s bar and late night culture in Hastings
03:44 Changes in nightlife and social behaviour over time
08:17 Decision to open the Dragon Bar
10:10 Finding the location and securing the lease
12:30 Renovating the space and building the bar
14:05 Designing the bar and creating long lasting features
17:10 Running the kitchen and building a reputation for food
20:10 Staff culture and hiring the right people
26:39 Why opening a bar today is harder than before
28:22 Rising costs and the economics of running a bar
37:26 Buying and rebuilding Fagan’s restaurant
45:19 Why bars are more viable than restaurants
50:13 Social media and changing customer behaviour
52:50 Memorable stories from behind the bar
1:01:05 Advice to his 18 year old self
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