BARS • First Round
The Skinny: East London pub and live music venue The Macbeth has been reimagined, thanks to Jamie Allan and Patrick Nolan, who refurbished the 19th-century interior and updated the kitchen’s offerings.
The Vibe: Undeniably cool in the most effortless way possible. It’s divided into two connected spaces, with the front of the room for drinking and general merriment, and the back for dining alongside the open kitchen. On a recent Saturday night, it was loud, energetic and fun.
The Food: Presented on a handwritten chalkboard, the menu evolves as the week goes along. It’s Portuguese-ish fare with a casual, comforting vibe, like cockles cooked with olive oil and seafood rice, or their take on Portugal’s deliciously grease-laden pork sandwich, the bifana, one of the best dishes I’ve had in London this year. It’s the sort of convivial food that never feels too pretentious for the setting. Sometimes The Macbeth shares the menu on Instagram in advance, but sometimes it’s a welcome surprise.
The Drink: The Macbeth stays true to its roots with pints of beer as the primary offering. The non-alcoholic selection is less varied, but there are several brands of alcohol-free beer to accompany the food.
The Verdict: The Macbeth has immediately established itself as a new local favourite. –Emily Zemler
→ The Macbeth (Shoreditch) • 70 Hoxton St • Tue-Sat 6-11p, Sun 1-5p (for food) • Book.