People playing pétanque at Circle13 in East London, enjoying Basque cuisine and craft highballs.

Circle13 Transforms East London’s Social Scene with Pétanque, Basque Cuisine, and Craft Highballs

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Written by Seth Sebastian

2026-10-18

In East London, Circle13 is redefining social experiences with its unique fusion of pétanque, Basque cuisine, and innovative drinks. Known for its modern twist on the traditional French sport, this venue is situated in Mentmore Terrace’s railway arches and is the brainchild of winemaker and cocktail expert Marc Sarton Du Jonchay, and former pétanque player Monty Quaia. Their mission: to breathe new life into the century-old sport and make it appealing to a modern audience.

Group playing pétanque on sand court at Circle 13, London Fields.
Circle 13 London Fields Petanque

Circle13 East London Pétanque: Modern Aesthetics Meet Traditional Game

Circle13’s design, led by Joseph Stone, embraces a modern aesthetic inspired by the game. Interiors draw from the sport’s visuals, with elements like sandy tiles reflecting the gravel pitches. This thoughtful approach seeks to honor pétanque while offering a fresh take for contemporary visitors in the innovative setting.

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Circle 13 pétanque players concentrating on the next steel ball throw.
Circle 13 London Fields Petanque

Aiming to stand out from the typical gaming bar, Circle13 prioritizes authenticity over gimmicks. ‘Rebellious simplicity’ guides the space’s ethos, creating a welcoming environment. The layout includes diverse areas: cocktail-dotted front spaces, a centralized bar, and dual pétanque pitches, each thoughtfully lit to enhance mood and engagement in the stylish locale.

Petanque game among friends at Circle 13 in open-air setting.
Circle 13 London Fields Petanque

Versatile Design and Warm Ambience at the Venue

The venue boasts modular design elements, ensuring adaptability for different events. Floor-to-ceiling glass fronts invite passersby with warm interior lighting, creating an inviting aura amidst the industrial backdrop.

Players aiming and discussing strategy during a pétanque match.
Circle 13 London Fields Petanque

Staff uniforms reflect the brand’s style, designed with Lithuanian streetwear brand Püga73. Combined with the interior’s aesthetic, these represent a modern London sensibility, bridging influences of streetwear and sports throughout the space.

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Culinary Delights with a Focus on Flavor

The menu crafted by Du Jonchay and chef Sean Donnelly highlights Basque flavors through pintxos like pork belly skewers, while desserts feature homemade Basque cheesecake. Low-abv drinks and creative non-alcoholic options reflect a commitment to balanced socializing, with prices set accessibly low at this innovative venue.

Steel balls scattered across Circle 13 pétanque court during gameplay.
Circle 13 London Fields Petanque

Quaia emphasizes the importance of reasonable pricing, challenging industry norms of high-cost non-alcoholic spirits. Circle13 aims to create not just a bar, but a community hub for creativity and collaboration, hosting events like chef takeovers from Michelin kitchens in an effort to promote east London games.

Circle 13 participants eagerly watch pétanque match progress.
Circle 13 London Fields Petanque

Fostering Community Through Shared Experiences

Ultimately, Circle13 seeks to transform the way Londoners connect, using their unique offerings as a vehicle for new social experiences. Quaia notes future plans for engaging programs that encourage creative expression and foster a sense of community.

Located at 369-370 Mentmore Terrace, Circle13 is more than just a bar – it’s a cultural initiative, making pétanque accessible and appealing to a wider audience through its visionary approach.

People playing pétanque at Circle13 in East London, enjoying Basque cuisine and craft highballs.

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Frequently asked questions

What unique elements does Circle13 offer in East London?

Circle13 offers a unique fusion of pétanque, Basque cuisine, and innovative drinks, situated in Mentmore Terrace’s railway arches. The venue is designed to breathe new life into the traditional French sport and make it appealing to a modern audience.

How is the design of Circle13 inspired by pétanque?

Circle13’s design, led by Joseph Stone, embraces a modern aesthetic inspired by the game. Interiors draw from the sport’s visuals, with elements like sandy tiles reflecting the gravel pitches, aiming to honor pétanque while providing a fresh take.

What does the menu at Circle13 focus on?

The menu crafted by Du Jonchay and chef Sean Donnelly highlights Basque flavors through offerings such as pintxos like pork belly skewers and homemade Basque cheesecake. It also features low-abv drinks and creative non-alcoholic options, reflecting a commitment to balanced socializing.

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