Historic Hackney Site Transformed into Empire Tavern Pub
One of east London's most prominent breweries, East London Brewing Co., is launching a brand-new pub this month in collaboration with the Taverns East Pub Group. The Empire Tavern, set to open on March 20, 2026, at 289 Mare Street, E8 1EJ, marks a significant addition to Hackney's vibrant drinking scene. This joint venture brings together two established names: East London Brewing Co., known for its craft beers, and Taverns East, which operates popular venues like the Leytonstone Tavern and Walthamstow's Tavern On The Hill.
Reviving a Victorian Pub with a Rich History
The Empire Tavern breathes fresh life into a building with a deep historical connection to Hackney's pub culture. The site was once home to The Britannia, a Victorian pub that suffered severe damage during World War II. Its boozing heritage dates all the way back to 1790, making this revival a nod to the area's longstanding tradition of community gathering spots. Located adjacent to the iconic Hackney Empire, the new pub aims to blend historical charm with modern flair.
Gourmet Pub Food and Craft Beer Focus
Food takes center stage at the Empire Tavern, with a menu designed for casual all-day dining. Highlights include pre-theatre offers and classic Sunday roasts. Exclusive dishes feature the bone daddy burger, made with smoked, braised beef brisket, confit garlic mayo, Guinness gravy, crispy onions, and a generous portion of smoked bone marrow. Snack options are equally indulgent, such as smoked ham and cheese croquettes with pineapple jam and mustard mayo, and hash browns topped with Cacklebean egg and chip shop curry sauce. For sharing, the pub offers loaded nachos with venison chilli, sticky miso honey chicken wings, and smoked mutton spring rolls.
On the drinks front, East London Brewing Co.'s beers and cask ales are prominently featured on tap. The pub also supports local independents, with brews from Hackney Wick's Howling Hops and E8 microbrewery Saint Monday already secured on the menu. Cocktail enthusiasts can enjoy £10 margaritas, and monthly events like 'First Pours' will include collaborative beer launches with guest breweries and tequila tastings. Additionally, Empire Tavern Lates will offer listening-bar-style nights on Fridays and Saturdays.
New York Dive Bar Aesthetics and Versatile Spaces
The Empire Tavern draws inspiration from New York dive bars rather than traditional London boozers, featuring dark wood booths, red leather seats, and '70s vintage lighting. A mezzanine level provides extra seating and event space above the bar. During the day, the pub transforms into a co-working area, with drinks supplied by nearby roastery Flying Horse Coffee. For warmer weather, alfresco seating at the front accommodates up to 50 people, making it an ideal spot for sunny days.
Enhancing Hackney's Pub and Brewery Scene
This opening reinforces Hackney's reputation as a hub for quality pubs and breweries, despite its association with gentrification. The Empire Tavern adds to the borough's diverse roster of drinking establishments, offering a unique blend of history, gourmet food, and craft beverages. With its strategic location and innovative design, it is poised to become a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, contributing to the ongoing evolution of east London's social and cultural landscape.
