Anchor and Hope founders to open The Clarence gastropub

Said to be the second oldest pub in Stoke Newington dating back to 1860, the pub will be overseen by  general manager Sam Gleeson, previously at Anchor and Hope, with chef Harry Kaufman, formerly at Garden Cafe, St John Bread and Wine, Lyle’s and 32 Great Queen Street, heading up the kitchen.

The food at The Clarence will continue the Anchor and Hope family tradition of European-inspired cooking without fanfare and will change with the seasons using ingredients from a range of small-scale suppliers. A short menu featuring items such as toasties will be available in the bar as well as a larger menu served in the two dining rooms.

Sample dishes include smoked haddock croquettes and mayonnaise; Turkish-style onion salad; confit duck leg, lentils and green sauce; chicken, bacon and wild garlic pie to share; and rhubarb fool served with shortbread.

“I spent a couple of really happy years in the kitchen at 32 Great Queen Street and having since worked elsewhere I’m delighted to get the chance to offer my own take on what they’ve been doing so successfully. They’ve earned a loyal following and we hope to continue that tradition at The Clarence,” says Kaufman.

The Clarence Tavern will open on 13 March.