Historic Hackney Pub The Gun Reopens with Japanese-Inspired Menu
The iconic Gun pub in Hackney has triumphantly reopened its doors under new ownership, bringing a fresh Japanese-inspired culinary twist while carefully preserving its beloved historic character. After abruptly closing last year, this Victorian-era establishment has returned to fill a significant void in Hackney's vibrant cultural landscape.
New Ownership with a Vision
Kotaro Ogawa, the restaurateur behind Mayfair's acclaimed Japanese steakhouse Aragawa, has taken over The Gun with a clear mission: to blend authentic Japanese cuisine with traditional British pub culture. Having searched for the perfect pub location for five years, Ogawa immediately fell in love with The Gun's distinctive character when he discovered it several months ago.
"The pub is something you have to protect," Ogawa told local media. "Ever since I came to this country, I always wanted to have one. I love the culture of it. I wanted to bring a blend of Japanese culture to pubs while maintaining what makes them special."
Preserving History with Japanese Touches
The Gun stands prominently at the corner of Cresset Street on Well Street, distinguished by its original green ceramic tiles and Victorian shopfront dating back to 1860. Known for its intimate atmosphere with a capacity of just 90 people, the pub has long been a favorite venue for live music among Hackney's music-loving community.
Ogawa has deliberately maintained most of the pub's traditional fixtures, including the exterior signage and chic interiors, while adding subtle Japanese elements. Bonsai trees now dot the interior spaces, creating a harmonious blend of British pub aesthetics with Japanese cultural touches.
A Culinary Transformation
Instead of traditional pub fare, The Gun now offers a carefully curated Japanese menu featuring dishes like miso lettuce, premium Japanese steak, matcha ice cream, and red bean taiyoki. The beverage selection includes traditional British beers alongside Japanese whiskey, sake, and the popular Japanese beer Asahi.
"I don't want to change much," Ogawa emphasized. "It's a nice pub. I only added small touches of Japanese culture. I want people to still enjoy coming to the pub. Of course having good food is important, but if you come to drink beer and meet people, that's what the pub is about."
Community Response and Future Vision
Local residents have expressed enthusiastic support for the reopening, with longtime regulars stopping by during preparations to express their happiness at seeing The Gun return. Ogawa noted the warm reception from the Hackney community during the opening preparations.
"We've had old regulars walk past as we were opening saying how happy they are to see The Gun opening again," Ogawa shared. "That makes me happy to see those people. Everybody on the street was asking when we were opening and being so nice to us."
Despite being based in West London, Ogawa has developed a strong affinity for East London's diverse culture and community spirit. He recognizes the challenges many pubs face during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and sees his role as helping to preserve cultural icons like The Gun for future generations.
"I've seen many areas change very rapidly," Ogawa reflected. "I want to protect it but also bring something new. I've seen pubs closing everywhere. I love independent restaurants and seeing people from the local community getting to enjoy them."
The Gun's reopening represents more than just another business venture for Ogawa. He explicitly states he's not trying to create a "Japanese pub empire" but rather wants to become part of the local culture while introducing Hackney residents to authentic Japanese cuisine in a familiar, welcoming setting.
Located at 235 Well Street, E9 6RG, The Gun stands ready to welcome back its regular patrons while attracting new visitors eager to experience this unique fusion of British pub tradition and Japanese culinary excellence.
