Urban Pubs & Bars to reopen ‘iconic’ city site after £1m refurb

Urban Pubs & Bars reopening St John's Tavern, Archway after £1m refurbishment
New look: the Archway pub is set to reopen this month (October) (Urban Pubs & Bars)

Multi-site pub group Urban Pubs & Bars is set to reopen an ‘iconic’ Victorian pub following a £1m investment.

St John’s Tavern in Archway will open its doors again on Friday 31 October with a launch celebration due to take place on Friday 7 November.

The pub’s new look aims to keep its character but with a refreshed designed, updated garden area and extended lounge.

It will accommodate 250 guests across its bar snug, main bar area, lounge, dining room and garden.

While the original bar and dining room features will remain, new furnishings, an upgraded kitchen and modern details will be on show.

Renewed food focus

The pub’s new offer includes a renewed focus on its food and drink with dishes centred around modern, seasonal British fare alongside craft beers, signature cocktails, wines and spirits.

Diners will be able to try dishes such as Maldon rock oysters to start, with heartier dishes such as Hereford beef burger for a main.

The menu will also feature sharing dishes such as a cock-a-leekie pie while desserts include burnt cheesecake with sherry and fig.

Sunday staples will feature pork, chicken, beef and a vegetarian option, served with all the trimmings.

Events such as Oyster Night with Maldon oysters available for £2 each and monthly supper clubs will aim to bring the community together.

Neighbourhood favourite

Open seven days a week, the St John’s Tavern will serve lunch, dinner and Sunday roasts.

Urban Pubs & Bars managing director Chris Hill 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,”

Urban Pubs & Bars, which was founded by Nick Pring and Malcolm Heap in 2014 and now has more than 60 sites across London, reopened the Highbury Barn Tavern this summer.

The north London pub received a £500,000 refurbishment and included a major food focus as part of the relaunch.