In late February, London bar operator Inception Group will open Mr. Fogg’s Pawnbrokers on Dean Street, making it the eighth Mr. Fogg’s venue.
The bar is not directly named after Verne’s intrepid traveller from Around the World in 80 Days, but rather after Phileas Fogg’s equally fictitious half-brother Frank (not a Verne creation). The narrative the venue has been given is one involving Frank attempting to capitalise on the family name by selling goods sourced from around the world (timeframe for collection of goods not specified).
The site, which was once Venise L’Entrecote, will have a capacity of 140 and is divided into three areas inspired by the world of Victorian pawnbroking: The Pawnbrokers Counter, The Strong Room and The Textiles Store.
The Pawnbrokers Counter is described as being: “decorated with keepsakes, curious Victorian erotica and paraphernalia”, while The Strong Room features “jewels, gold and antique busts”.
As for the cocktails, the menu was designed by Group Bars manager Simone Spagnoli. Among the concoctions that will be served are The Mahgreb (Bacardi Carta Blanca rum, Italicus bergamot liqueur, star anise honey water, fresh mint, fresh lemon juice, absinthe and Peychaud’s Bitters, served in a Moroccan tea set) and Priceless Heirloom (Bombay Sapphire gin, Essentiae lemon verbena liqueur, raspberry shrub, lime juice, topped with Franklin & Sons rose lemonade, all served in a Ming dynasty-style vase, of course).
Inception Group co-founder Charlie Gilkes said: “We are hugely excited to launch this new iteration of Mr Fogg’s in the heart of Soho. The rich history of the area has inspired this new site from the interior design to the drinks and we are looking forward to welcoming customers in February.”
Further Mr. Fogg’s venues are planned for the remainder of 2023.
