Business & Tech

Business Owner Lea Doyle Holds the Key to Pub Success

The Horse and Jockey British Pub, located in South Pasadena, is "abso-bloody-lutely" authentic.

Lea Doyle was born in the United Kingdom. To be exact, Liverpool is his hometown. Doyle grew up like many others, where football (or soccer) was more than just a game. He played at all levels, including the most elite. Doyle played semi-pro for Flint and Holywell, what is now the Welch Premier League and he trained with the Everton Football Club Youth Team.

Once his career as an athlete came to an end, Doyle became a businessman. He worked through the late 1980s and ‘90s as an IT specialist.

By 2003, Doyle was ready for a change. He brought his family to the States where he would eventually frequent a restaurant called The Horse and Jockey. It was a British style pub with classic dishes, good company and cold beer.

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Previous owners opened the restaurant in 1987, so it already was known by locals.

Doyle enjoyed the establishment so much that in 2008, he decided to buy it. He was convinced that the venue would continue to grow organically. And it did.

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Along with being a business owner, Doyle also stays connected to his favorite sport. He coaches youth soccer at the Azalea Youth Soccer League. Doyle has had a hand in shaping the progression of the different levels of play.

The Horse and Jockey is a favorite spot for locals, especially on holidays. With St. Patrick’s Day just days away, Doyle is already prepping for the madness. There will be live music starting at 5 p.m. that goes until about midnight. Corned beef and cabbage will be up for grabs all day long on Saturday as well.

In addition to the St. Patty’s Day specials, the regular menu will be offered too. Traditional English grub like fish and chips or bangers and mash are some of the available options. All plates are made fresh and in-house.

Doyle plans to continue growing the business. Current improvements include an exterior modification plus the addition of private booths inside the restaurant.


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