The Marksman, a popular Hackney boozer has been given a fresh lease of life by chefs Tom Harris and Jon Rotherham, who previously worked at London's iconic restaurant St John. Operating over two floors, it is said to be named after a marksman who protected Nelson in the historic Battle of Trafalgar.

Downstairs they have retained the traditional décor with wood panelling, a mahogany bar and antique brass lighting, but they have added smart leather banquette seating. Music is courtesy of the Princess Rock-Ola Vinyl Jukebox which plays jazz, blues and reggae, together with 45rpm soul records from Tom Harris and Jon Rotheram's personal collection.

It still thrives as a watering hole serving its local community, but it's the food that is attracting a lot of press. Guests can eat informally downstairs or upstairs in the bright contemporary dining room, created by London-based Italian designer Martino Gamper. Furnished with bespoke tables and customised colourful Ercol chairs, the room is light and airy, flooded with lots of natural light. The ceiling is panelled with upholstered cloth woven by the London Cloth Company in Clapham and the floor features a bold colourful design.

Impeccable seasonal ingredients are treated with respect, appearing on the plate as highly accomplished and competent cooking. The menu showcases a selection of small plates such as Morecambe Bay oyster, apple and cucumber or their very popular beef and barley bun with horseradish cream. Elsewhere look for cured Red Mullet, fennel and bergamot or braised short rib, celeriac and pickled walnut. To finish expect sweet offerings like brown butter and honey tart or chocolate, blackberry and barley malt.

The reasonably priced wine list focuses on the Old World, there's a small selection of cocktails reviving drinks from the Victorian and Edwardian eras, and a wide range of beers and ales, such as the locally brewed Bethnal Blonde. The Marksman was awarded the Michelin Pub of the Year 2017 in the Eating Out Pubs Guide.

The Marksman is also featured in: Michelin Guide, Hardens

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Gastro pub / British

Tom Harris and Jon Rotherham

Lunch: 11.00am - 4.00pm Sat & 12.00 - 4.00pm Sun Brunch
Dinner: 6.00 - 11.00pm Mon-Sat (6.00 - 9.00pm Sun)

Visa, Master Card

• 30 covers