The moment you enter Quill at Borough Yards, it feels as though you’ve stepped straight into a vinous treehouse—it’s everything—the decor, the atmosphere, the wine, the people. One of three venues opened by Fables & Company, Andrew Gray, their founder, built on the two wine lists at Plume and Finch, but steered them towards a unique direction, featuring fine wines at reduced prices, English wines, as well as a selection of ‘mysterious,’ lesser-known options, enabling you to explore hidden treasures from around the world.
Designed by the distinguished Sophie Bicknell from studio Bare, the decor at Quill will hold you by the grip, boasting an eccentric wine cellar, artworks on every surface—even on the ceiling—as well as antiques and mementos from the founder’s globetrotting everywhere. This collision of old-world objects and contemporary design invites you into a space best-described as an adventure. Outside, the exterior is an ode to an English garden, just a few steps away from River Thames and a short walk away from Shakespeare’s Globe.
Like its two other sister venues Plume and Finch, Quill hosts many fun activity nights such as ‘Secret Notes’ where customers exchange anonymous notes between tables, as well as the complimentary Tarot Readings. Staying true to its storytelling essence, Quill also welcomed Luke Erasmus as the Poet in Residence. Known for his captivating work on the streets of Southbank, he now has a cosy spot in the bar to craft personalised poems for customers bring Quill to life —trust us, this is a one-of-a-kind experience.
The Wines and Cocktails
From France, to South Africa, Australia, then all the way back to Argentina, among others, Quill curated a trove of wines literally from everywhere, stocking a selection of reds, whites, bubbles, as well as pinks and oranges. In fact, they’ve even designed the menu with the shape of a map so you know exactly where your glass came from—reinforcing the bar’s mission of putting storytelling at the centre of their identity. As the temperatures drop in London, Quill also prepared a cosy winter garden outside where you can sip on top-notch mulled wine surrounded by heaters.
As for the cocktails, you have plenty of enticing original options to explore. Tropical and refreshing, Ink Well combines Bacardi, coconut cream, ginger, and lime. Cherry Old Fashioned, a timeless and bold blend, features Kinahan’s Whisky, Luxardo, cherry, sugar, and bitters to form a rich and fruity classic. Another standout is Earl of Gray, a floral and citric creation with Earl Grey-infused El Rayo tequila, triple sec, lime, and honey. Meanwhile, Plume of Feathers pairs Creme de Cassis, Elephant Sloe Gin, and Krone for a bright, bubbly delight that captures Quill’s playful spirit.
The Food
Curated by Rob Wade, Fables & Company’s Culinary Innovator, the food at Quill also embodies a playful duality, capturing the spirit of the venue. From one end, you have refined dishes like Sea Bass on a Bed of Leeks & White Miso Beans, nodding to the Thames’ historic ties to this native delicacy. From another, you suddenly find a Boar Hotdog with Bacon Jam & Pickles, honouring Fables & Company’s tradition of pairing gourmet street food with exquisite wines. Other star options include the Duck Confit Burger, a hearty and indulgent delight, or the Golden Boy grilled cheese sandwich. Great wholesome food that works so well with the drinks.
To share, you can order the Burrata & Olive Oil, Tea Cured Borough Scotch Egg, or the Hummus with Pickled Chilli Tomato & Gremolata Chickpea. There are also British cheese and cured meat boards—a must-have with wine.
Overall
As Borough Market continues to grow as a hotspot for high-end dining and nightlife, Quill is the cherry on top, offering an aesthetic space to relax and mingle. Rarely do you find sophistication and playfulness colliding—from striking decor to top-notch wines and refined yet hearty food, Quill should definitely take that first spot on your list. Where else could you enjoy a meticulously sourced glass of wine while having a poem written just for you, have your future read with tarot, or perhaps even receive a secret note from your love-to-be? At Quill, you’re part of the story.
Situated at the historic riverside gateway to Borough Market, Quill boasts a 2,000 square foot space that can host 75 covers across its internal arch and outside garden, making it larger than both of its sister bars.
To make your booking, visit quillwinebar.com
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All imagery courtesy of Quill Borough Yards.