Whilst the capital city certainly isn’t lacking in bars and boozers; we’re always happy to budge up and make room for one more. Because we Londoners are generous like that, you see? The newest pub on the block has just arrived in Dalston – and it’s perched inside what used to be one of the capital’s oldest pie and mash shops.
The Black Eel pub has set up shop inside the Grade II listed spot that was purpose-built as F. Cooke’s pie shop at the end of the 19th century. It ended up being one of London’s oldest surviving pie and mash shops, and filled the rumbling tummies of the East End with pie, mash, and – of course – eels for over 130 years. It shut up shop in 1996, making way for a Chinese restaurant, a board game cafe, and now, the Black Eel Pub.
The name of the new watering hole gives a nostalgic nod to the building’s really (or should I say eel-y?) iconic past, and the space seamlessly blends the spirit of the East End with a fresh new energy to create a sensational social hub in the heart of the city.
The Black Eel Pub
The space is certainly larger than its exterior lets on. It’s sort of like the Mary Poppin’s bag of London pubs. Inside, the Black Eel boasts the likes of a main bar, a private karaoke room (complete with leopard print carpet and hidden disco room), a darts and shuffleboard space, and plenty of snug spots to settle in for the night. The pub will also be home to huge hidden beer garden (one of the largest in East London) out the back, complete with its own pétanque court. Blimey.
The kitchen has been taken over by Riley’s (the latest project from chef, Billy Fisher). The menu features a selection of wholesome and hearty dishes, made with high-quality ingredients and full of bold flavours. There will (of course) be some delicious Sunday roasts on offer, too. In the beverage department, visitors can expect to find an array of creative modern beers, courtesy of Exale Brewing (the brains behind the shiny new pub). There’s also a whole host of seasonal and signature cocktails to sip on, as well as delicious natural wines. We’ll certainly drink to that.
The Black Eel Pub has opened at 41 Kingsland Road. Find out more and plan your visit here.
