Hackney Empire is situated in the heart of London’s East End and has been an iconic venue for the arts and popular culture since it first opened in 1901. It is now an exceptional variety theatre for the 21st century that embraces a local and global community of artists and audiences; and presents work that is at once extraordinary, relevant, inspirational and transformative.
Hackney Empire’s pioneering work with young people and its communities are at the heart of its mission. The ever-changing local demographics of Hackney and the improving local transport links and access to central London have provided a unique opportunity for Hackney Empire to further capitalise on their ‘Empire Bar Space’.
Montfort Consultants were appointed to identify and embed a new operator and food and drink concept for this dual aspect location with prominent street frontage. Critical considerations included ensuring that the new food and drink offer and concept would be a destination in its own right as well as support the local community and serve the 200,000 theatre audience members who visit the theatre each year
Montfort Catering Consultants supported Hackney Empire with the identification, selection and appointment of an exciting new hospitality operator for their ‘Empire Bar’ space on Mare Street, Hackney. From utilisation of our broad hospitality and cultural sector professional contacts to introduce the opportunity to, to developing full request for proposal documents, heads of terms and negotiations, we supported through the entire catering tender process. Needless to say we had some very strong and exciting proposals from some of the most high profile restaurateurs, neighbourhood pub and dining rooms, art based bar operators, cafes, breweries, hospitality based social enterprises, coffee companies and event providers.
Key to the overall success of the appointment of Hackney Empire’s new hospitality partner was the liaison and communication that we provided between the parties through the process, ensuring that all requirements were appropriately considered and developed to ensure that the operation would be a long term success for all parties – the operator, Hackney Empire and guests.
After a detailed and thorough competitive tender process involving multiple stakeholder from Hackney Empire, including the Executive Director, Artistic Director and Trustees, East London Brewing Co. & Taverns East Pub Group have been appointed as a joint venture and Empire Tavern will soon launch.
Currently recruiting, Empire Tavern will be a new friendly brewhouse, bar and all-day-space in East London. We can’t wait!
Posted on January 30th, 2026
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