How Paddy Piggott Built the Dragon Bar from Nothing and What Running a Bar Really Takes

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 CoveredStarting in hospitality with no qualifications during a recessionWorking in kitchens and bars and learning through experienceThe culture and late night scene at Harper’s in HastingsOpening the Dragon Bar and finding the right locationRenovating an empty unit and building the bar by handCreating a space that attracts loyal customers and strong staffManaging staff and building a team with personality and energyThe financial reality of running a bar and rising operating costsRegulations, taxes, and why the industry is harder todayDifferences between running a bar and a restaurantWhy atmosphere and experience drive repeat customersThe impact of social media and changing nightlife cultureLessons from travel, risk taking, and personal growthEnjoying the show?Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world.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.Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts.Key Moments:00:00 Introduction to Paddy Piggott and early career00:34 Starting work as a dishwasher during a recession01:31 Harper’s bar and late night culture in Hastings03:44 Changes in nightlife and social behaviour over time08:17 Decision to open the Dragon Bar10:10 Finding the location and securing the lease12:30 Renovating the space and building the bar14:05 Designing the bar and creating long lasting features17:10 Running the kitchen and building a reputation for food20:10 Staff culture and hiring the right people26:39 Why opening a bar today is harder than before28:22 Rising costs and the economics of running a bar37:26 Buying and rebuilding Fagan’s restaurant45:19 Why bars are more viable than restaurants50:13 Social media and changing customer behaviour52:50 Memorable stories from behind the bar1:01:05 Advice to his 18 year old self