The 19th century north London pub that is reopening after a £1 million makeover

Makeovers can be hard to get right, especially when you’re working with old buildings, and even more so when it’s a cherished community spot. You want to make sure the original character of the property remains, but that it’s brought into the modern age when it comes to things like decorations and double-glazed windows. That’s the sort of balance that developers are looking to strike at St John’s Tavern in Archway, which is set to reopen this week.

Things have been moving pretty quickly for St John’s Tavern. It was purchased by Urban Pubs and Bars, a local company who owns more than 60 boozers in London, back in September. Then, it was then closed on October 6 to allow for a series of renovations to take place, and now we’ve got a date for reopening: Friday October 31.

The pub is a local favourite. Sitting on an unassuming street in Archway, it’s known for serving great food alongside warm service, all inside a stunning Victorian building. A total of £1 million has gone into giving the place a new look and feel, and the new owners have promised great things.

Chris Hill, the managing director for Urban Pubs and Bars, says that the company’s investment into St John’s Tavern ‘ensures it remains a neighbourhood favourite while evolving into something fresh and exciting’. According to him, we can expect ‘beautiful new interiors, a focus on great seasonal food and a vibrant community feel’.

A new menu is at the ‘heart’ of the tavern’s relaunch. An emphasis is being placed on local produce, so starters will be things like oysters with horseradish, scallops with leek cream and bacon, and sardines, while mains will range from British beef steaks and burgers to locally farmed pork. Sunday roasts will, of course, also be on offer.

As for drinks, there will be a curated selection of ‘craft beers, signature cocktails, wines and spirits’. Basically, the classics will all be there, alongside some drinks specially chosen by the new owners.

Although the first day back in business will be October 31, a big ‘launch celebration’ will take place the following week, on Friday November 7. It’s not a ticketed event; just show up, grab a pint, and enjoy the good vibes.

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