Discover London's Best Gastropubs: A 2025 Guide

Looking for somewhere to eat that offers more than just a pint and a packet of crisps? London's gastropub scene is absolutely booming, with loads of places serving up seriously good food in a relaxed pub setting. Whether you're after a classic roast or something a bit more adventurous, finding the best gastropub london can be a real treat. We've rounded up some of the top spots that are making waves in 2025, so you know exactly where to head for your next delicious meal out.

Key Takeaways

• London boasts a significant number of top-tier gastropubs, often recognised in national rankings.

• These establishments focus on high-quality, often seasonal British produce, with some even featuring in-house butchers or bakeries.

• The gastropub experience in London ranges from traditional settings with modern menus to more contemporary spaces.

• Many of these pubs are celebrated for their Sunday roasts and innovative takes on classic pub dishes.

• Reservations are frequently recommended due to the popularity of these acclaimed London gastropubs.

1. The Devonshire

Nestled in the heart of Soho, The Devonshire has made quite the comeback. After a period of being known as something else entirely, it's been brought back to life and is now a real hotspot. It's the kind of place that attracts a bit of a crowd, with celebrities often spotted here.

Founded way back in 1793, it's seen a few changes over the years. The current team, including Oisín Rogers and Charlie Carroll, along with chef Ashley Palmer-Watts, have really put it back on the map. They've managed to get it a load of awards, which isn't surprising when you look at what they're doing.

The food here is a big draw, with a focus on quality ingredients and well-executed dishes that appeal to a wide range of tastes. It's a place that feels both classic and contemporary.

It's a pub that really understands how to blend a traditional pub atmosphere with a modern dining experience. You can expect a menu that's both familiar and exciting, making it a great choice for a meal out.

2. The Camberwell Arms

This place on Camberwell Church Street has been a solid choice for a good meal out since 2014. It’s a Victorian pub that’s been done up nicely, and it really hits the mark for a quality dining experience. You’ll find a focus on seasonal cooking here, with menus that change to reflect what’s fresh. They make a lot of things themselves, like the breads and even the ice creams, plus they do their own pickling and smoking.

They’ve got a good selection of wines that lean towards natural producers, and the cocktails are pretty traditional but well-made. It’s the sort of place where you can expect dishes that are both tasty and thoughtfully put together.

The kitchen really commits to using what's in season, and you can taste that care in every dish. It feels like a proper neighbourhood spot that also happens to serve seriously good food.

If you're looking for a reliable gastropub that consistently delivers on flavour and atmosphere, The Camberwell Arms is definitely worth checking out. It’s a great example of how a modern eatery can respect its pub roots. You can find out more about their current menu and book a table at The Camberwell Arms.

3. The Red Lion & Sun

Tucked away in the leafy lanes of Highgate, The Red Lion & Sun feels a world away from the city bustle. It’s a place that’s really earned its reputation, consistently popping up on lists of London’s top spots for a good meal. They’re serious about their food here, with a focus on British ingredients that are treated with real care. You can tell they’re committed to quality, especially with their in-house butchery and bakery – that’s not something you see every day.

The menu changes daily, which keeps things interesting, but you can expect dishes that showcase fantastic produce. Think dry-aged beef, seafood landed that very day, and shellfish sourced from the coast. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to settle in for a while, perhaps in one of their two beer gardens if the weather’s playing ball, or by the warmth of the wood-burning fire when it’s not.

This pub has a history stretching back to the 16th century, giving it a real sense of place and tradition that you can feel as soon as you walk through the door.

It’s particularly famous for its Sunday lunches, which are often cited as some of the best in the country. If you’re looking for a proper Sunday roast with all the trimmings, this is definitely one to consider. They also have a good selection of drinks, including local ales and some interesting craft beers.

4. The Bull and Last

The Bull and Last, a fixture in Highgate, has a history of making it onto the Top 50 Gastropubs list, and it's back in the running after a bit of a spruce-up. They're known for putting a fresh spin on classic pub grub, often with a nod to European flavours. It's the kind of place that really celebrates British produce, with their own butchery and bakery on site. You can expect things like dry-aged beef, fresh seafood, and a menu that changes daily.

Their cookbook, which came out recently, gives you a real insight into their food and the people who love it. It's packed with recipes and stories about the pub's regulars and the local area.

Here's a little taste of what you might find:

• Dry-aged Scottish beef, butchered in-house

• Creel-caught langoustines from Oban

• Day boat fish and hand-dived scallops from Devon

The pub's name apparently comes from an old story about coach drivers heading north out of London, shouting "The Bull – and last" as they reached the final stop.

5. The Harwood Arms

Tucked away in Fulham, The Harwood Arms holds a rather special title: it's London's only Michelin-starred pub. This isn't your average local; it's a place that takes British produce seriously, with a particular fondness for game when it's in season. You might find yourself tempted by their famous venison Scotch eggs if you're just popping in for a drink, but it's really worth sitting down for a proper meal.

The menu here changes daily, reflecting what's best at the market. Expect dishes that showcase prime ingredients, like roast muntjac with celeriac or perhaps sea trout on toast with mussels. They also do a cracking Sunday lunch, which is a big draw for many.

Here's a little of what you can expect:

• Seasonal game dishes

• Creative takes on British classics

• A well-curated global wine list

It's a popular spot, so booking ahead is definitely a good idea if you want to experience this unique gastropub. You can find out more about their current offerings on their website.

Dining here feels like a special occasion, even though it's a pub. The attention to detail in the cooking is clear, and the atmosphere manages to be both refined and relaxed.

6. The Baring

Tucked away in Islington, The Baring is a real gem that’s been making waves in the London food scene. It’s not trying to be anything it’s not; it’s a proper pub that just happens to serve seriously good food. You’ll find a menu that’s got a bit of a continental flair, but it’s firmly rooted in British cooking. Think comforting dishes done exceptionally well.

The Sunday roast here is particularly noteworthy, often drawing praise for its quality and generous portions. They also do a cracking job with their Scotch eggs, which are a must-try starter if you get the chance. The pub itself has a warm, inviting atmosphere, a far cry from some of the more sterile, modern establishments you might encounter.

It’s a place that feels lived-in and loved, with a good selection of beers to boot, showing they haven’t forgotten their pub roots. It’s the kind of spot you could easily spend an afternoon in, enjoying good food and good company.

The Baring manages to strike a balance between being a welcoming local pub and a place that serves food you’d expect from a more formal restaurant. It’s a testament to good cooking and a relaxed vibe.

Here’s a little taste of what you might find on their menu:

• Buttermilk chicken sandwich

• Quail shish

• Pig’s cheek and smoked eel terrine

• Seasonal specials that change regularly

7. The Canton Arms

Tucked away in Stockwell, The Canton Arms has been a fixture on the London gastropub scene since it first opened its doors in 2010. It’s the kind of place that feels both familiar and exciting, a real testament to the partnership between chef patron Trish Hilferty and Charlie Bousfield, who honed their skills at the renowned Anchor & Hope.

This gastropub consistently earns accolades, featuring in the Top 50 Gastropub Awards for over a decade. It’s clear they’re serious about sourcing, bringing in top-notch ingredients like Tamworth & Middlewhite pork from Yorkshire and Salt Marsh lamb from Essex. You can really taste the quality in dishes like their seven-hour braised lamb shoulders.

While the menu shifts with the seasons, you can expect a focus on well-executed British produce. They also have a decent selection of beers, including familiar favourites like Five Points and some more adventurous options from breweries like Burning Sky. It’s a solid choice for a relaxed yet refined meal.

The Canton Arms manages to strike a balance between a proper pub atmosphere and a serious dining experience, making it a go-to for many.

8. The Clarence Tavern

The Clarence Tavern in Stoke Newington is a real gem, a grand old corner pub that’s managed to keep its Victorian charm while embracing a thoroughly modern approach to food and drink. It’s the kind of place that feels both familiar and exciting, a proper neighbourhood spot that punches well above its weight.

Their menu is all about seasonal ingredients, so you’re always going to find something fresh and interesting. You might see dishes like Jerusalem artichoke cannelloni, or lamb chops with puntarelle. They also do a chicken, leek, and bacon pie that’s meant for sharing – sounds pretty hearty, doesn't it?

It’s a place that’s really come into its own, especially considering it opened right before the pandemic hit. They’ve clearly worked hard to establish themselves as one of London’s top gastropubs, and it shows.

They’ve got a good selection of natural wines, which is always a good sign in my book. It means they’re paying attention to what’s happening in the wine world, not just sticking to the usual suspects.

If you're looking for a place that balances a classic pub atmosphere with seriously good, seasonal cooking, The Clarence Tavern is definitely worth a visit. It’s a solid choice for a relaxed meal or a proper Sunday roast.

9. The Marksman

If you're ever in Hackney and can't decide between a proper pub atmosphere and a really good meal, The Marksman on Hackney Road is your spot. It’s a place that manages to feel both relaxed and a bit special, whether you’re settling into the bar area for a pint or heading upstairs to the dining room. They've got a good selection of beers, including some interesting craft options, and a decent wine list too.

When it comes to the food, it’s definitely a step up from your average pub grub. You can start with things like curried lamb buns, which are a real treat, or share a hearty chicken and chanterelle pie. For something a bit more refined, they do dishes like hake with white beans and brown crab, or Aylesbury duck with mash and pickled prunes. It’s the sort of place where you can have a proper sit-down meal that feels thoughtfully prepared.

The Marksman really hits the sweet spot for a relaxed yet quality dining experience. It’s a great choice for a weekend lunch or a more casual weeknight dinner when you fancy something a bit more interesting than usual.

They also have a good selection of British cheeses and some classic pub desserts with a twist, like a treacle tart. It’s a place that clearly cares about its food and drink, making it a solid choice for anyone looking for a quality gastropub experience in East London. You can find out more about their current menu and book a table on their website.

10. The Eagle

The Eagle in Farringdon is often called the original gastropub, and for good reason. It opened way back in 1991, long before the term 'gastropub' was even really a thing. Michael Belben and David Eyre started it all, and it was a hit straight away.

What makes The Eagle special is its no-fuss approach. You order at the bar, and they don't take bookings. The menu changes all the time, with lots of specials popping up. But some things have become proper legends, like their grilled whole mackerel and their steak sandwiches.

The kitchen is really small, with room for just two chefs. They put together a short menu that's written on a blackboard, and it's usually ready just five minutes before they start serving.

Here's a taste of what you might find:

• Bife Ana: A marinated steak sandwich that's a real classic.

• Pan-fried scallops with chorizo, chickpeas, and a chilli jam.

• Grilled Napoli sausages served with puy lentils and a tomato and white cabbage salad.

It’s a place that’s been doing its own thing for decades, mixing simple pub vibes with seriously good food.

So, What's Next for London's Foodie Pub Scene?

Well, there you have it. London's gastropub scene is really something else, isn't it? From the fancy spots in Mayfair to the more down-to-earth places in Hackney, there's a pub out there for pretty much everyone. It’s clear that these places are more than just somewhere to grab a pint; they’re proper food destinations now. Whether you’re after a Sunday roast that’ll blow your socks off or some inventive small plates, the pubs we’ve looked at really show what’s possible. It’s been a great year for London’s pubs, and honestly, I can’t wait to see what they come up with next. Keep an eye out, because this city’s food pubs are always changing and always surprising us.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a gastropub?

A gastropub is basically a pub that serves really good, restaurant-quality food. Think of it as a pub with a fancy kitchen that focuses on delicious meals, not just basic pub grub. They often have a great selection of drinks too, like craft beers and nice wines.

How were these pubs chosen for the list?

These pubs were picked because they're considered among the best in the UK for food. Experts in the food and pub world, like food writers and people who run pubs, vote for them. It's like an award for pubs that do food exceptionally well.

Are these pubs expensive?

The prices can vary, but generally, gastropubs offer great value for the quality of food you get. Some might be a bit pricier because they use top-notch ingredients or have a Michelin star, but many offer really tasty meals at reasonable prices, similar to a good restaurant.

Do I need to book a table in advance?

It's usually a very good idea to book ahead, especially for popular places or if you're planning to go on a weekend or for Sunday lunch. These pubs are well-loved, so they can get full quite quickly!

What kind of food can I expect?

You can expect a wide range of amazing food! Many focus on British classics made with fresh, local ingredients, like Sunday roasts or pies. Others might have more creative dishes with influences from around the world. It's always best to check their menu online before you go.

Are these pubs good for a casual meal or something more special?

Gastropubs are great for both! You can pop in for a relaxed lunch with friends, enjoy a hearty dinner after a long day, or even celebrate a special occasion. The atmosphere is usually friendly and welcoming, but the food is always a step up from your average pub.