NOT MANY places can pride themselves on doing brunch as well as London. With a wide selection of venues offering bottomless Prosecco flowing from 12pm on the weekends, the residents of the Big Smoke fell in love with this way of unwinding after the hectic work weeks.
Yet, despite its continuously growing popularity, the variety of options does not cover those who would prefer to stay away from a classic avocado toast accompanied by Bloody Marys.
As one of the pioneers, Apothecary East introduces a Japanese inspired brunch offering the guests to indulge in staple cocktails accompanied by delicious selection of small plate dishes.
Highball Brunch
Located in a historic building hidden in buzzing Shoreditch, Apothecary East is a combination of a classy cocktail bar and elegant Japanese restaurant, aiming to bring the feeling of a Tokyo nightlife to Londoners.
The interior soaked in the rays of sun coming through the glass roof, is full of warm wood accents, green leather booths and golden lamps. There is an intimate feeling to the space, despite its large, open floor plan.
Mixture of more private booths, high tables and large open kitchen make the venue an ideal spot for a romantic evening as well as a larger party with friends or family.
Sakura Hai
Recently launched Sakura Highball Brunch is a reflection of Japanese outdoor parties hidden under Sakura trees during cherry blossom. The cocktail menu has options of more complex Sakura Hai, bourbon based with blossom bitters; Yuzu Gin-Gin with yuzu infusion, fresh lemon and ginger beer or, for more adventurous, Violet Spring – Ginjo sake, sprit de figures, crème de violette and fresh lime.
Each drink carries a refreshing tone making the Highballs an ideal escape from the heat of summer days in the city.
Yuzu Gin-Gin
We start with delicious sushi rolls filled with salmon and vegetables, then move on to selection of hot plates. The menu is designed to share, so each of us can easily opt for something different aiming to try as many things on the list.
We are encouraged to pick one dish each from gyoza and vegetable section and we opt for tenderstem broccoli and black sesame cauliflower, which – not to our surprise – arrives packed with flavour proving that simplicity of vegetables cannot be overlooked.
Highball Brunch
Our main dishes include fried tempura prawn, which never disappoints, followed by perfectly tender miso aubergine and a bowl of yakisoba noodles. For dessert we are presented with a roasted pistachio mochi, a perfect amount of sweet after such a culinary journey we have just endured.
We leave Apothecary East full and pleasantly tipsy. No better way to start a Saturday in the city.
by Olga Petrusewicz
36 Charlotte Rd, London EC2A 3PG
Sakura Highballs Brunch is served on Saturdays priced at £35pp and additional £27pp to make it bottomless. Booking available here.