Known as one of Hackney’s hidden gems, The Natural Philosopher has charms enough already. Beautiful vintage décor. Incredible ambience. Award-winning owner. And now, a cocktail menu like no other. Launched this week, the new menu takes its inspiration from some of the lesser-celebrated stars of the natural world, making flavourful surprises from some little-used ingredients.

Since launch, The Natural Philosopher’s menu has been built around natural ingredients. Josh Powell, who took over the bar in late 2019, is passionate about sustainability. So, as well as removing fruit garnishes from signature drinks and creating the menu covers from sustainably harvested cork with plant cellulose brand detailing, he’s built the standard menu around foraged ingredients. September’s new menu takes that move one step forward, with a stronger focus on herbal remedies.

The New Menu

People have used plants to create natural remedies for centuries. Many plants are still embraced medicinally and by the beauty industry for their beneficial properties. The Natural Philosopher is taking that goodness and blending it with alcohol for a very different kind of remedy!

‘For the new menu, we thought it would be fun – and in keeping with the ethos of the bar – to take a look at integrating some herbal remedies into our cocktails, rather than just the established botanicals,’ Josh explains.

Whilst the menu encompasses many different natural ingredients, Josh believes that the star of the show is the Dandelion Root.

‘The Dandelion Root was the first recipe we worked on. And I have to say that it’s my favourite. It’s a caffeine free version of an espresso martini with Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Dandelion Root Liqueur, and Dandelion Root “Coffee”. Here, dandelion root is used as an alternative to coffee, one hundred percent decaff, and the cocktail doesn’t need to use a foaming agent to obtain that well known froth! In traditional medicine it’s used to treat heartburn, eczema and acne as well as stomach and liver disorders. It’s kind of a natural superhero, but most people just see it as a troublemaker in the garden… That’s partly what this menu is about it. Bringing a new perspective to everyday plants and ingredients.

Back in April, Josh Powell was unsure if The Natural Philosopher would ever open its doors again. Lockdown took its toll. Now, the distinctive London bar is very much back with a bang. And its new menu is here to make everyone feel better.

Book a table at the Natural Philosopher today and enjoy its unique character whilst sipping on some of the best cocktails in London’s cosiest space.

The Natural Philosopher, 489 Hackney Road, London, E2 9ED

Opening hours: From 6pm, Tuesday – Saturday