OPENS JUNE 2021
Found on the former site of much-missed Merchant’s Tavern site is Apothecary, a Japanese inspired tavern partly conceptualised by Spiritland, who oversee a roster of live music and DJs.
The restaurant takes its name from history (the venue historically housed a Victorian apothecary shop and warehouse), but the interiors more resemble that of Japan’s ubiquitous Izakaya bars, known as hubs of social activity that are dedicated to relaxed drinking, music and Japanese small plates.
Only a short stroll from Old Street Station, Apothecary has space for over 130 diners across its open plan dining room, with the interiors reflecting a contemporary Japanese joint: think a standalone bar topped with a slab of sapele wood and a robata kitchen counter. As for the Apothecary menu, you can expect a run of snacks and small plates that are served throughout the day, priced from between £3-15. From the selection, choose between the likes of sushi rolls, fresh sashimi, Hirata steamed buns and skewered meats and vegetables cooked on a robata grill.
Apothecary is a rare London restaurant where drinks are given equal billing to the food. The
cocktail offering has been curated by drinks specialist Hamish Denny (formerly of Hawksmoor) and is replete with Asian influences. Highlights include the Whisky Highball (a blend of Toki Whisky, soda, and Genmaicha tea) and the Sweet Pea, made with Tequila, lemon, sweet pea, soda, and absinthe. There are also wines and both local and Japanese beers, as well as sake that is available in taster size glasses should you be a newcomer to the delights of the famous Japanese rice wine.
Apothecary is open for both walk-in diners and bookings and is an inclusive restaurant in the sense that it caters to everyone from solo diners to large groups. On Friday and Saturday nights, DJs take up residence to pump out lively tunes while a private dining room comes complete with a record player should you wish to play your own vinyl collection.