We head down to Hackeny for some pizza and pints…
The Ambience
This corner pub from The Five Points Brewing Company gently buzzes with a relaxed atmosphere on a Sunday afternoon. The staff are kind and helpful and the general ambience is relaxed. It is easy to imagine this spacious venue gets full towards the end of the week with locals.
The menus focus on two things the team behind the Pembury do well: beer and Pizzas from Ace. We order a selection of the beer, including the refreshing Five Points Pils lager and The Railway Porter, a rich chocolatey stout – as well as two pizzas.
The Food
The Double Pepperoni is full of flavour – led by a crispy sesame crust which adds robustness to the base. Pecorino sets off the marinara base nicely, though added chilli oil needs much more heat. A bit more smokiness in the pepperoni is needed and this would be been just right – all in all, a very solid pizza.
The Honey Pie lacks the same structural integrity, presumably being more topping-heavy than its companion. An attempt to pick it up whole fails and the toppinngs are scooped using the base like a naan. The spicy salami, fennel, pickled chillies and honey, however all pack a punch and, in terms of flavour, this pizza gives a stronger bite. The elements work together to create a tasty balance of heat, sweet and sourness which although too rich to finish in one sitting, is very enjoyable.
The Verdict
A host of great house session beers and a regularly rotating guest list gives lots of reasons to return to the Pembury Tavern. The pizzas are also satisfying and well priced with a host of vegan options as well. House dips are a nice addition and overall, the pub is defintely worth a visit if in the area – perhaps followed by a meander down to the newly opened outdoor Five Points Taproom in London Fields.
The Details
Address: 90 Amhurst Rd, London E8 1JH
www.pemburytavern.co.uk