Mikkeller Opens New London Craft Beer Brewpub With Rick Astley | Eater London

"An extension of the cult Copenhagen craft-brewery, this two-floor taproom in Exmouth Market is the brand’s second London venue and launched in partnership with 80s pop star Rick Astley — a relationship that dates back to the 'Northern Hop' lager, whose reddish hue was reportedly inspired by Astley’s hair. Unlike its Shoreditch sibling that brews on-site, this location will not brew in-house initially and is scheduled to close early next year for a refit that will add a restaurant. The brewery’s bold, ingredient-forward approach—putting fruits, spices and herbs front and centre rather than integrating them subtly—has been well received in London, even if transplanting the light-wood Copenhagen aesthetic onto traditional British pub settings initially jarred some; the former rotating pop-up site provides a blank canvas to stamp the brand’s identity. Founded in 2006 by Mikkel Borg Bjergsø and Kristian Klarup Keller, the operation is known for a wide range of styles, collaborations with high-profile restaurants (such as Alinea and Noma), use of local ingredients, a devoted following, and a famously publicized rivalry with the founder of Evil Twin." - James Hansen