Powder Keg Diplomacy to relaunch with new name and chef

The business has been purchased by Jayke Mansion and Andy Bell of Clapham Leisure, who also own several other south-west London venues such as coffee chain Brickwood, WC Wine and Charcuterie and Joe Public Pizza.

Designed by consultancy Kai Design, the 90-cover site in Battersea will have a conservatory area and a 15-cover outdoor terrace. The redesign will expand the bar to fill the whole space to allow for large group bookings.

The venue has secured a 2am license for Friday and Saturdays, and will serve cocktails, bottled and draft craft beers and local ales. There will be a separate menu for gin and tonics, and a wine list.

Bar food will consist of charcuterie, sharing plates, small plates and smoked meats and fish priced between £6-£12, including burrata with focaccia, peas and truffle; brisket with baby gem and pomegranate; and octopus with white beans and preserved peppers.

There will be a daily list of grill specials such as Lake District Farmers dairy cow sirloin; Galician bavette; and whole sea trout.

A weekend brunch and lunch menu will include the likes of fried chicken, avocado and pickled chilli muffin; blueberry pancakes with fruits and crème fraîche and a full English breakfast priced £7.50-£12. There will be a roast menu available on Sundays, served from noon until late.

“I’d always loved Powder Keg Diplomacy and jumped at the change to take over the operation”, says co-director and co-owner Jayke Mangion. “We’re keeping all the best bits and have given the venue a much-needed fresher up, with more attention on food, wine and functions within a more relaxed environment.”