Historic London pub to reopen after £1m revamp
19th century pub, St John’s Tavern, in Islington, north London, will reopen its doors later this month following a £1 million refurbishment, after being snapped up by Urban Pubs & Bars.
The historic Victorian pub, located in the heart of Archway, has been acquired by Urban Pubs & Bars, London’s largest independent pub and dining group. The relaunch is set for Friday 31 October, with an official launch celebration planned for Friday 7 November.
The renovation aims to preserve the building’s heritage while introducing modern touches, including a refreshed design, upgraded kitchen and extended garden and lounge spaces.
The revamped tavern will be able to accommodate around 250 guests across its various areas, including a bar snug, dining room and outdoor garden.
The menu will serve up seasonal British fare, featuring dishes such as skate wing with caper and parsley butter, pork tomahawk with apple slaw, and 28-day aged ribeye steak with triple-cooked chips. Traditional Sunday roasts and weekly oyster nights, with fresh Maldon oysters for £2 each, will also return, alongside new monthly supper clubs.
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What’s on the menu?
Sharing dishes will include a cock-a-leekie pie and slow-cooked lamb shoulder with braised lentils, with desserts ranging from sticky toffee pudding with clotted cream to chocolate and Guinness cake.
Chris Hill, Managing Director of Urban Pubs & Bars, said: “St John’s Tavern is one of North London’s true gems, a classic Victorian pub with an incredible history and a loyal local following.
“Our investment ensures it remains a neighbourhood favourite while evolving into something fresh and exciting. With beautiful new interiors, a focus on great seasonal food, and a vibrant community feel, we can’t wait to welcome guests back this autumn.”
The reopening marks Urban Pubs & Bars’ latest addition to its portfolio, which now includes more than 60 venues across London since its founding in 2014. St John’s Tavern will be open seven days a week.
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