A drinking establishment from the Victorian period that was flattened during the Second World War is being revived this week, transformed into a combined pub and restaurant.

Empire Tavern launches on 20 March on Mare Street, operating as an extension of the Hackney Empire complex.

The location previously housed The Britannia, a Victorian-era venue that suffered bomb damage during the conflict. It was subsequently reconstructed under the name The Samuel Pepys, before undergoing further development in the early 2000s to become The Marie Lloyd Bar.

THE SPACE COMBINES TRADITIONAL PUB ATMOSPHERE WITH RESTAURANT-GRADE DINING

The newest version of the site represents a collaboration between Taverns East Pub Group, an independent hospitality business established by Ronnie Finch and Jamie Tack, and East London Brewing Co.

In their announcement, the founders stated that Empire Tavern would serve as a central hub for Hackney’s social and cultural activities, situated within the Hackney Empire grounds and facing Hackney Town Hall.

The space combines traditional pub atmosphere with restaurant-grade dining, craft beverages and an organised schedule of musical performances and happenings.

To serve theatre-goers seeking late-night refreshment, the establishment will switch formats on Fridays and Saturdays through an initiative dubbed Empire Tavern Lates. These evenings will feature selected music, local disc jockeys and dancing through the night.

The redesign draws influence from American dining establishments, featuring dark timber seating areas, traditional red leather chairs and characteristic warm lighting from the 1970s.

An upgraded sound system booth will also feature, acknowledging Hackney’s own thriving music culture.