The Light Bar

The Light Bar illuminates Shoreditch’s past and present

The Light Bar in Shoreditch isn’t just a place to drink; it’s a place to take in a story, where industrial history, architectural preservation, and contemporary London culture converge. Housed in a former power station built in 1893, this independent Shoreditch venue doesn’t just acknowledge its origins; it electrifies them, reinforcing Shoreditch’s historic motto from 1900, “More Light, More Power”.

That spirit is carried through in the brand’s design, a sharply considered logotype with a crafted twist with the “G” forms a lightning bolt, a widely recognised icon for power and a subtle nod to the building’s roots.

The Light Bar’s menu balances locality and innovation, much like the space it inhabits. Dishes spotlight high-quality British produce with a Southeast Asian influence, offering a modern fusion. Allergen symbols, e.g. VG, appear before the dish titles, an intuitive tweak that speeds up decision-making for diners with dietary requirements. This is a slight change with a significant impact. The drink menu is just as thoughtful. Cocktails reference local landmarks and geographical surroundings, a tribute to East London’s layered history. Presented in columns, the drinks menu encourages side-by-side price comparisons, which is not preferable, whereas the food menu neatly tucks pricing after each dish. However, both omit the £ symbol, which is a psychological nudge to distance guests from the concept of cost.

With some original mechanical machinery still on display and a visual identity rooted in its industrial past, The Light Bar brings its history to life, serving a story with your Shoreditch Sour (Avallen Calvados, Peach Liqueur, Stone Fruit, Lemon).