Merchants Tavern to be replaced by Japanese izakaya-inspired concept Apothecary
The former Merchants Tavern site in London's Shoreditch will relaunch on 2 June as the Japanese izakaya-inspired Apothecary.
Dishes on the menu will be Japanese-influenced snacks and small plates, served all day from Apothecary's open kitchen, as well as a selection of skewers from a robata grill, sushi, sashimi and hirata steamed buns. Prices will range from £3-£15 per plate.
The name is a nod to the history of the building as a Victorian apothecary and warehouse. The new collaboration has been part-conceptualised by Spiritland co-founder Dominic Lake.
The venue will have more than 130 covers across its open-plan space, with an original sapele wood bartop and robata kitchen counter. The interiors have been designed to reflect both its Shoreditch location as well as a Tokyo-style tavern.
The cocktail offering has been created by Hamish Denny, Spiritland group bar manager, combining classics with Asian influences, while hot and cold sakes will be offered alongside a range of beers, both local and Japanese, and an extensive wine list.
A 22-cover private dining room will house private events, complete with a record player and sound system. Apothecary will also host regular DJ sessions on Friday and Saturday nights.
