Powder Keg Diplomacy to relaunch with new name and chef

Battersea restaurant Powder Keg Diplomacy is to relaunch as Powderkeg on 29 September, with Ben Mulock, formerly of Salt Yard Group’s Opera Tavern, as executive chef.

The business has been purchased by Jayke Mansion and Andy Bell of Clapham Leisure, who also own several other south-west London venues such as coffee chain Brickwood, WC Wine and Charcuterie and Joe Public Pizza.

Designed by consultancy Kai Design, the 90-cover site in Battersea will have a conservatory area and a 15-cover outdoor terrace. The redesign will expand the bar to fill the whole space to allow for large group bookings.

The venue has secured a 2am license for Friday and Saturdays, and will serve cocktails, bottled and draft craft beers and local ales. There will be a separate menu for gin and tonics, and a wine list.

Bar food will consist of charcuterie, sharing plates, small plates and smoked meats and fish priced between £6-£12, including burrata with focaccia, peas and truffle; brisket with baby gem and pomegranate; and octopus with white beans and preserved peppers.

There will be a daily list of grill specials such as Lake District Farmers dairy cow sirloin; Galician bavette; and whole sea trout.

A weekend brunch and lunch menu will include the likes of fried chicken, avocado and pickled chilli muffin; blueberry pancakes with fruits and crème fraîche and a full English breakfast priced £7.50-£12. There will be a roast menu available on Sundays, served from noon until late.

“I’d always loved Powder Keg Diplomacy and jumped at the change to take over the operation”, says co-director and co-owner Jayke Mangion. “We’re keeping all the best bits and have given the venue a much-needed fresher up, with more attention on food, wine and functions within a more relaxed environment.”