A dash of Norway arrives in Hackney

True Norwegian Egil Johansen is the latest proprietor launching an assault to make hackney the must visit place to drink in London. The Kenton, on Kenton Road, hackney has received a much needed facelift and an injection of Norwegian style, transforming it from a once football dominated pub to a friendly home to those looking for a cosy and arty venue.

The Kenton, located north of Victoria park and only a stone’s throw from the ultra hip Dalston - named in The Guardian recently as the coolest place to go in Britain and reminiscent of the heyday of downtown New York - is the perfect setting to enjoy food, drinks and good music by established and amateur DJ’s, all under the intriguing eye of the giant Norwegian moosehead (shot in 1972 by Egil’s grandfather no less).

The refurbished bar boasts an eclectic mix of vintage and antique furniture housed in a comfortable setting.

A varied drinks menu caters for all tastes and includes eleven beers and ales on tap as well as a special cocktail menu featuring long island ice tea’s, green apple martini’s and the highlight of the list – The signature cocktail “Viking blood” – which includes a healthy serving of The Norwegian schnapps “Akkevit”.

The knowledgeable and friendly bar staff are on hand to recommend something for all and can even select the best “Pieminister” pies to accompany.

Great Music is always at the heart of The Kenton with regular DJs every Weekend (including Sundays) playing everything from 60s rock and Indie to Disco and Electronica.

Local talented artists and photographers are invited to exhibit in the backroom on a monthly basis and Kenton customers can see art in the making on Saturday 23rd May when The Kenton is organising graffiti-art jam in the beer garden. Two selected artists will be given a garage-door each to decorate in the theme “Norse Mythology”, with the winner receiving a £100 voucher from Imperius Rex Skate-shop in Bethnal Green Rd.

Exciting times are ahead for the Kenton and plans include short-film screenings by local film-makers, cult-movie nights and live music – just as soon as the licence comes through!

And for all quiz boffs the Kenton hosts a regular quiz every fortnight.

The Kenton is the perfect place to visit for people living in the area or those looking for a hidden gem somewhere off the beaten track!

Check out kentonpub.co.uk for further information, or go along and see for yourself - The Kenton, 38 Kenton Road, London E9 7AB.