The Natural Philosopher
If you're looking for a unique, vibrant spot to enjoy some great drinks and food, The Natural Philosopher is the place to be. Nestled inside The Macsmiths, located at 489 Hackney Rd, London E2 9ED, this venue offers an unforgettable dining and drinking experience with an emphasis on delightful cocktails and a cozy atmosphere.
At The Natural Philosopher, you’ll find a curated selection of drinks and dishes that will surely tantalize your taste buds. The cocktail menu is diverse, featuring popular drinks like Pisco Sour, Rum, Daiquiri, and Manhattan. If you’re into something more experimental, the Espresso Martini and Coffee Old Fashioned are perfect choices. They also offer cocktails made with fresh ingredients, such as the fruity Strawberry, Raspberry, and Coconut options, and for those who appreciate a unique twist, their Dandelion Root cocktail is a must-try. With its wide selection of spirits, wine, and beer, there's something for everyone. Whether you're here to sip on a classic Whiskey Sour or celebrate a special occasion with a 5 de Mayo cocktail, you’ll find your ideal drink at The Natural Philosopher.
The food offerings here are just as exciting as the drinks. A tempting selection of charcuterie awaits you, perfect for pairing with your cocktail. With a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, the menu is designed to complement the drinks and create a harmonious dining experience.
What makes The Natural Philosopher stand out is not just the quality of the drinks and food, but the vibe of the place. It's got a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere that makes it a fantastic place to hang out with friends, enjoy good food, and sip on expertly crafted cocktails. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, with an accessible entrance and toilet, ensuring a comfortable visit for all. However, note that there's no designated wheelchair-accessible parking.
The service here is top-notch, with the staff ensuring that every guest feels at home. The Natural Philosopher serves on-site dining and is perfect for a night out. Unfortunately, they don’t offer delivery or takeaway, but the focus is clearly on making the in-house experience special. With happy-hour drinks and free water refills, it’s a spot where you can truly relax and enjoy the company of others.
Accessibility doesn’t just stop at the entrance-it extends to the overall atmosphere. The restaurant offers seating arrangements and allows outside food, giving guests more flexibility to make their experience just right. Whether you're here for a quick bite or a long night of indulgence, the vibe is casual and fun. You can also enjoy cocktails, spirits, and a variety of beverages that can be enjoyed in both the indoor and outdoor seating areas, making it a versatile choice for different preferences.
If you find yourself in the area, The Natural Philosopher is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates well-crafted cocktails, delicious food, and a laid-back but lively atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to unwind after a busy day or to kick off an evening with friends. The combination of great drinks, tasty food, and a fun vibe makes it an unforgettable destination for anyone exploring the Hackney area.
Reviews
The best cocktails I've ever had. Really creative flavours and even more creative ways of making them. Make sure to book if you want to enjoy their happy hour!!
The Natural Philosopher was a real treat. The menu drinks were fantastic and Josh can create any drink to match your palette. This spot was a great recommendation from the NYT and should not be missed.
An absolute hidden gem, well worth seeking out. The menu is well described and varied, and the cocktails are on point. Glasses are frozen, ingredients are well considered and service is a sublime mix of attentive and unintrusive. The space itself is cosy and very relaxed, small tables creating an atmosphere without beconing too cloying. It's imtimate yet approachable, friendly yet secretive. Well worth a visit.
Great looking place and very friendly staff. Lots of unique fairly priced cocktails, well made with locally sourced ingredients. Picklebacks are really good too!
A beautiful and welcoming space. The owner mixed fantastic drinks and shared stories and suggestions to enrich our experience in London. Highly, highly recommend cocktails here!