The Pugh Dynasty: 5 Shocking Facts About Clinton Pugh, The Oxford Restaurateur Who Won't Quit
Clinton Pugh is far more than just "Florence Pugh's father," though his connection to the Hollywood superstar is what brings him international attention. As of December 2025, the English entrepreneur is making headlines for a dramatic, high-stakes reversal in his decades-long Oxford business career, proving that the 67-year-old restaurateur is not ready to hang up his apron just yet.
The veteran businessman, whose culinary empire on Oxford’s Cowley Road has defined the city’s dining scene for over 40 years, recently faced significant financial challenges, selling off his final establishments amid losses. However, the latest news confirms an astonishing comeback, with Pugh declaring, "I'm not finished yet!" after re-acquiring one of his most beloved venues, making his story one of resilience against the backdrop of local economic pressures.
The Pugh Family Dynasty: A Complete Profile
Clinton Pugh is a renowned English restaurateur, entrepreneur, and 3D designer, but he is arguably best known as the patriarch of one of Britain’s most talented families in the arts. Based in Oxford, England, his entrepreneurial journey began when he first arrived in the city at the age of 26 to run Clareys, an American-themed pizza restaurant. His career has since spanned four decades, establishing him as a legendary figure in the local business community.
Clinton Pugh Biography & Family
- Full Name: Clinton Pugh
- Nationality: English
- Occupation: Restaurateur, Entrepreneur, 3D Designer
- Age: Approximately 67 (as of late 2024 reporting)
- Spouse: Deborah Mackin (Dancer and aerobics instructor)
- Residence: Oxfordshire, England
- Notable Business Ventures: Kazbar, Café Coco, The Lemon Tree, Café Tarifa, Baedekers, Clareys
The Talented Pugh Children
Clinton Pugh and Deborah Mackin are parents to four children, all of whom have pursued successful careers in the entertainment industry, establishing the family as a true creative dynasty:
- Arabella Gibbins: Actress and vocal coach.
- Toby Sebastian: Actor and musician, known for his role as Trystane Martell in the HBO series Game of Thrones.
- Florence Pugh: Acclaimed actress, known for Oscar-nominated roles in films like Little Women, Midsommar, and Oppenheimer.
- Rafaela "Raffie" Pugh: The youngest sibling, also involved in creative pursuits.
The Rise, Fall, and Phoenix-Like Rebirth of the Oxford Empire
Pugh’s reputation was built on creating some of Oxford’s most iconic and vibrant social spots, particularly along the bustling Cowley Road. His venues were known for their unique character, atmosphere, and longevity, making them institutions in the city.
The Golden Era of Oxford Dining
For decades, Clinton Pugh was synonymous with the Oxford restaurant scene. His portfolio included several famous names, each with its own distinct identity:
- The Lemon Tree: One of his early and famous establishments.
- Café Coco: A beloved café that operated for over 30 years before its sale.
- Kazbar: A popular Moroccan-themed bar and restaurant that became his final, and most dramatic, business venture.
- Café Tarifa: Another popular spot that contributed to his Cowley Road culinary hub.
The £900K Loss and LTN Controversy
In recent years, Pugh’s empire faced severe headwinds. The economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with rising costs, took a heavy toll. The situation was compounded by the implementation of Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) rules in Oxford. Pugh publicly stated that the traffic calming measures contributed significantly to a loss of approximately £900,000, severely impacting the footfall and viability of his businesses. This led to the emotional decision to sell his final establishments.
The sale of the last of his long-held businesses, including Café Coco and Kazbar, was widely reported as the "end of an era" for the legendary restaurateur.
"I'm Not Finished Yet!": The Kazbar Comeback
The most compelling and current chapter of Clinton Pugh’s story is his recent, unexpected return to the business he had just left. After selling his final remaining establishment, the Moroccan-themed Kazbar on Cowley Road, Pugh couldn't stay away for long.
In a move that stunned the local community and proved his deep commitment to the Oxford nightlife scene, Pugh announced his decision to buy Kazbar back. This highly publicised re-acquisition, which took place in August of the previous year (2024), signalled a powerful statement of intent. The decision was a direct rebuttal to the idea of retirement, a concept he clearly found unappealing.
The veteran entrepreneur confirmed his renewed enthusiasm, stating, "I'm not finished yet!" in an exclusive interview with local media. This comeback is seen as a major boost for the Cowley Road community, which had lamented the loss of his long-standing presence. It demonstrates Pugh's belief in the area and his personal passion for the hospitality industry, even after facing immense financial pressure and losses.
More Than Restaurants: The Art Collection
Beyond his culinary ventures, Clinton Pugh has also been an avid collector of art. In a separate, high-value financial move, he has considered selling a portion of his extensive collection, which is valued at over $1 million. This move suggests a strategic restructuring of his assets, perhaps to fund his renewed business ventures or to manage personal finances following the tumultuous period of restaurant sales.
The story of Clinton Pugh is a fascinating blend of family celebrity and hard-nosed entrepreneurship. His latest move to re-take the helm of Kazbar reinforces his legacy as a determined and influential figure in Oxfordshire, one who continues to fight for the soul of his local high street.
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