Nestled at 36 Charlotte Road in the heart of London's trendy Shoreditch, Apothecary East brought a slice of Tokyo nightlife to the city with its innovative Japanese-inspired bar snacks, expertly crafted cocktails, and a buzzing atmosphere that made it a go-to spot for foodies and trend-conscious travelers alike.
Apothecary East specialized in small plates that encouraged sharing and sampling multiple dishes, creating a social and lively dining vibe. Customers raved about standout dishes such as the miso charred aubergine, black sesame cauliflower that melts on your tongue, and the perfectly tender kakuni pork belly. The menu also featured fresh sashimi, soft shell crab rolls, and a variety of vegetable-forward options, making it a paradise for those wanting to explore bold Japanese flavors with a modern twist.
The team at Apothecary East was known for their friendly, prompt service, with staff often encouraging diners to try more sides and small plates to elevate their experience. Alongside the food, the cocktail menu was thoughtfully curated, with drinks like the Hibiscus Mar-Tea-Ni and Yuzu Posset dessert cocktail becoming favorites among guests. The venue also welcomed groups and was a popular spot to enjoy dinner with friends in a lively, urban setting.
Inspired by Tokyo's vibrant nightlife, the venue featured live DJ performances on Friday and Saturday nights, adding to the energetic and upbeat ambiance. The music perfectly complemented the eclectic menu and stylish interior, making it a hotspot for Londoners looking to combine great food with a night out. While there was no outdoor seating, the inviting indoor space was perfect for intimate dinners or lively group gatherings.
Apothecary East garnered a largely positive reputation within the London food scene for its innovative dishes and welcoming vibe. Diners cherished the vibrant atmosphere and attentive service, though some noted occasional inconsistencies in food quality and service. Despite these minor critiques, the overall community sentiment remains upbeat, praising the restaurant as a fun and unique destination that brought a touch of Tokyo's izakaya culture to Shoreditch.
- Is Apothecary East still open? No, Apothecary East closed its doors on July 27, 2024, after three years in Shoreditch. They are planning to open a new restaurant in 2025 in a different location.
- What are some of the signature dishes at Apothecary East? Signature dishes included miso charred aubergine, black sesame cauliflower, and kakuni pork belly.
- Did Apothecary East offer live music? Yes, Apothecary East featured live DJ performances on Friday and Saturday nights, contributing to its lively atmosphere.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Shoreditch, London, Apothecary East carved a unique niche as an independent bar and restaurant inspired by the dynamic izakaya culture of Tokyo. Opening its doors in 2021, this stylish venue offered an innovative culinary experience with its contemporary Japanese small plates and expertly handcrafted cocktails. The restaurant's location held special significance, housed within a historic Victorian building that once served as a dispensary, blending rich heritage with modern gastronomic flair.
The story of Apothecary East is marked by significant milestones that reflect its ambition and community impact. In 2021, it launched with a fresh concept that quickly attracted food lovers and cocktail enthusiasts to explore Japanese flavors in an intimate setting. Over the next three years, the venue became known for its diverse small plates, which allowed guests to sample a wide variety of tastes in a lively and convivial atmosphere reminiscent of Tokyo's nightlife scene.
- 2021: Apothecary East opened in Shoreditch, London, offering contemporary Japanese small plates and handcrafted cocktails.
- 2024: Apothecary East closed its doors on July 27, 2024, after three years of serving the Shoreditch community with exceptional Japanese-inspired cuisine and cocktails.
- 2025: Plans are underway to launch a new restaurant under the Apothecary brand at a different location, promising to continue the legacy of innovative Japanese dining experiences.
Apothecary East distinguished itself not only through its delicious menu and craft cocktails but also by embracing the spirit of Tokyo's izakaya nightlife. Its emphasis on small plates encouraged social dining and sharing, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for groups and gatherings. The historic Victorian dispensary building added a layer of charm and connection to London's rich past, making every visit a blend of culture, history, and culinary artistry.
Apothecary East remains a memorable chapter in Shoreditch's vibrant dining scene, cherished for its inventive approach to Japanese cuisine and its celebration of convivial nightlife culture.
Located at 36 Charlotte Rd, London, Apothecary East draws inspiration from Tokyo nightlife, offering a vibrant atmosphere complemented by innovative Japanese-inspired dishes and cocktails. This establishment has become a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking a unique dining experience.
- Vibrant atmosphere with live DJ performances on weekends
- Innovative Japanese-inspired dishes with vegetarian and vegan options
- Attentive and friendly service
- Happy hour offering discounted cocktails
- Weekend bottomless brunch with sharing plates
- Inconsistencies in food quality and service noted over time
- Some patrons found portions to be small for the price
- Venue closed permanently on July 27, 2024
- No longer accepting reservations or walk-ins
- No longer offering menu items or services
Apothecary East is perfect for groups looking to enjoy a lively night out, especially during DJ nights or for a weekend brunch with friends.
Reservations are recommended for busy nights, and while the venue is dog-friendly, it is not suitable for children. Be sure to check for any special events or menu changes before your visit.
Apothecary East offers a unique blend of atmosphere, innovative cuisine, and attentive service. While there have been some inconsistencies noted, the overall experience remains enjoyable, particularly for those looking to immerse themselves in a lively dining scene.
