The Natural Philosopher

Established in 2015, it has cultivated a strong local following and a reputation for innovative cocktails that draw inspiration from the UK’s diverse natural landscapes. Hidden through a genuine Mac repair shop, the bar is a concealed treasure trove for both locals and tourists alike, providing an enchanting blend of mystique and charm in its offering.

The bar’s decor is inspired by the past and tinged with an atmosphere of nostalgia. Antique-filled, the interior design echoes the rich history of the area while providing a cozy and intimate environment for patrons. The lush abundance of imitative plants decorating the premises furthers this theme, effectively creating an overgrown oasis in the heart of the city.

A key distinguishing feature of The Natural Philosopher is its dedication to using foraged and unusual ingredients in its cocktails. This approach stemmed from the owner’s personal interest and experience in foraging, which began five years ago during a trip with John The Poacher, a renowned figure in the East London foraging scene.

Since then, the bar has continued to leverage the bountiful produce growing naturally around London and across the UK, brought to them by a network of skilled foragers. From the humble dandelions of urban environments to the complex seaweeds of the UK’s coastline, these botanicals infuse the bar’s cocktails with unique and intriguing flavours that can’t be found anywhere else.

In order to make the most of these ingredients, The Natural Philosopher team invests significant effort in experimenting with different extraction techniques and flavour combinations. This often involves a considerable amount of trial and error, with the team beginning the development process for the next menu barely a month after introducing the current one.

The result of this relentless pursuit of perfection is a diverse and balanced menu that appeals to a broad range of tastes. Each drink is a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication of the team, combining art and science to deliver a compelling drinking experience. The success of this approach is evident in the loyal customer base that frequents the bar, valuing the consistency of quality and warm, welcoming atmosphere it provides.

Josh, the owner of The Natural Philosopher, embarked on his journey in the hospitality industry in 2009 in Cardiff, Wales. He was instantly drawn to the energy and camaraderie inherent to the scene, leading him to work at various establishments including The Natural Philosopher. The allure of this unique bar was irresistible, leading him to take up the ownership in 2019, a decision he never regretted.

The approach to hospitality at The Natural Philosopher is deeply personal for Josh, grounded in a philosophy instilled by his grandmother who always told him “if we’ve got it, you can have it”. This is embodied in every aspect of the bar, with the team going above and beyond to accommodate any guest request, as long as they have the ingredients on hand.

Navigating the world of hospitality hasn’t been without its challenges, particularly when the global pandemic hit just a few months after taking ownership. But it’s the ability to adapt, persevere, and maintain the commitment to excellent service during these trying times that truly encapsulates Josh’s dedication to his role. It is this tenacity, coupled with a profound love for the industry and the bar, that continues to shape The Natural Philosopher and its future.

Despite its innovative and experimental approach, The Natural Philosopher remains committed to its core values of inclusivity and excellent service. This ethos is reflected in the bar’s casual, conversational brand voice, as well as its relationships with other local businesses. Instead of seeing them as competitors, The Natural Philosopher views other cocktail bars in the area as members of a community, often recommending them to patrons and maintaining a positive relationship with them.

As for the future, the bar’s focus is on enhancing its online presence. By engaging customers with educational posts and behind-the-scenes insights into its unique process, The Natural Philosopher aims to bring the magic of its physical location into the digital sphere.

In summary, The Natural Philosopher is more than just a cocktail bar. It is a testament to the richness and diversity of nature, a community hub, and a space that offers an escape from the bustling city outside. Through its innovative cocktails, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to its core values, it has carved a unique niche in London’s vibrant cocktail scene.