Discover the Best Pub Food North London Has to Offer: A Culinary Guide
- comedyinyoureye
- Apr 13
- 11 min read
Right then, let's talk about finding the best pub food North London has to offer. It's not just about a pint anymore, is it? Pubs have really upped their game, serving up some seriously tasty grub that can give any restaurant a run for its money. Whether you're after a classic Sunday roast or something a bit different, North London's got some cracking spots. I've had a good look around, and here are a few places that really stand out for their food.
Key Takeaways
North London boasts pubs that are serious contenders for the best pub food in the city.
From traditional pies to modern twists on British classics, the variety is impressive.
Gastropubs in the area focus on quality ingredients and skilled cooking.
Expect hearty meals, comforting flavours, and a great atmosphere.
These pubs offer a true taste of British culinary tradition with a modern flair.
1. Compton Arms
Tucked away in Islington, the Compton Arms is a pub that’s really making a name for itself, especially as a launchpad for some seriously talented chefs. It’s got this cool vibe where they host different culinary residencies, meaning the menu can change quite a bit, but it’s always something to look forward to.
Right now, Rake is in charge, and they’re serving up seasonal British pub grub with a bit of an edge. Think dishes inspired by places like St John, so you might find things like salsify with scotch broth, or even devilled duck hearts on toast. It’s definitely not your average pub fare, but it’s done with real skill.
Here’s a peek at what you might find:
Seasonal British dishes
Creative takes on classic pub food
Guest chef residencies
It’s the sort of place that feels both familiar and exciting, a real gem for anyone looking for something a bit different from the usual pub grub. The Compton Arms is a testament to how pubs can be dynamic spaces for culinary innovation.
2. Bull & Last
Right on the edge of Hampstead Heath, The Bull & Last is a proper gem for anyone who fancies a bit of a walk followed by some seriously good grub. It’s the kind of place that takes classic British comfort food and gives it a bit of a polish, making it feel fresh and exciting. You can’t really go wrong here, but their beer-battered fish and chips are a big hit, served up with all the trimmings like mushy peas and proper tartar sauce. And if you're a fan of a good charcuterie board, theirs is loaded with homemade terrines and pickles that are spot on.
What really stands out, though, are the Sunday roasts. They’re generous, to say the least, with your choice of beef, pork, or lamb, and the Yorkshire puddings are legendary – seriously, they’re massive. It’s the sort of meal that makes you feel properly looked after. They’ve got a decent selection of beers too, and the atmosphere is usually buzzing, especially after a good walk on the Heath. It’s a place that feels both traditional and modern, a real find in North London.
The Bull & Last has built a solid reputation, earning a 4.0 out of 5 rating from 465 reviews on Tripadvisor. It's currently ranked #2980 out of 20348 restaurants in London, showing it's a popular spot among locals and visitors alike.
If you're planning a visit, especially for a Sunday roast, it’s probably a good idea to book ahead. They also do some cracking pies and other hearty dishes throughout the week. It’s a pub that understands what people want from their food – good quality ingredients, well-cooked, and served in a welcoming environment. Definitely worth checking out if you're exploring the Hampstead Heath area.
3. Spaniards Inn
Right, so the Spaniards Inn. This place has been around for ages, seriously, its history goes back to the late 1700s, apparently it was even a bit of a haunt for smugglers back in the day. It's got that old-school vibe, you know? Exposed beams, a bit of character. They've done it up a bit over the years, so it's not exactly falling apart, but it still feels proper historic.
When it comes to the food, they really pride themselves on their meat. A lot of it comes from local places, which is always a good sign. People rave about their Sunday roasts – apparently, the beef is something else. I've heard good things about the sausages too, maybe made with venison and pork belly, served with this wild garlic mash. Sounds pretty decent, doesn't it?
They do fish dishes as well, like hake in a rich sauce with brown crabmeat. Starters can be things like grilled squid with chilli jam or a hearty terrine. And for pudding, you're looking at crumbles or maybe a chocolate, orange, and prune tart. It’s all pretty substantial stuff.
The drinks selection is also pretty extensive, which you'd expect from a place that's been in the business for so long. They've got a good range of beers and other drinks to go with your meal.
It's worth noting that while the history and the food can be great, some recent feedback hasn't been the best, especially regarding Sunday lunch. It's always a bit of a gamble with these older places, isn't it? Still, for a taste of history and some seriously good meat dishes, it's definitely one to consider on your North London pub crawl.
4. Holly Bush
Tucked away in Hampstead, the Holly Bush feels like stepping into a time capsule. This old pub, with its wooden beams and cosy fireplaces, is exactly what you'd hope for when you're after a proper British pub experience. They do a cracking job with the classics here.
Their menu is full of those comforting dishes we all love. Think hearty steak and ale pie, or bangers and mash done just right. But the real star for many is their ploughman's lunch. It's a generous spread of local cheeses, crusty bread, and all the pickles and chutneys you could want. It’s the kind of place where you can really settle in with a pint of real ale and a no-fuss, satisfying meal.
You get a real sense of history here, from the old beams to the warm glow of the fire. It’s a proper escape from the hustle and bustle.
If you're looking for a traditional pub atmosphere and food that hits the spot, the Holly Bush is definitely worth a visit. It’s a solid choice for a relaxed afternoon or evening.
5. Tamil Prince
Tucked away in Barnsbury, the Tamil Prince is a real gem for anyone craving authentic South Asian flavours. It's not your typical pub grub, but it's definitely a pub that serves some of the best food you'll find in London. The head chef, Prince Durairaj, who also has a background with Roti King, really knows how to pack a punch with his cooking. You'll find dishes that are bold, full of flavour, and will have you wanting more.
When you visit, make sure to try the okra fries – they're wonderfully crispy. The chicken lollipops are also a tasty starter. For your main, the channa bhatura chickpea curry is a solid choice, and the massive tiger prawns in garlic masala are something else entirely. It's the kind of place where the food is the main event, and it truly shines.
The atmosphere is lively, and the staff are friendly, making it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family. Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations; they're usually spot on.
Here are a few highlights you shouldn't miss:
Gunpowder Potatoes
Paneer in Tomato Sauce
Prawn Varuval
Freshly made parathas
It's a fantastic example of how pubs can offer something a bit different and incredibly delicious. You can find out more about their recommended dishes on their menu.
6. Clarence Tavern
Tucked away in Stoke Newington, the Clarence Tavern is a bit of a gem. It looks like a proper old-school Victorian pub from the outside, all wood panelling and traditional charm, but don't let that fool you. Inside, it’s a different story. The menu is seriously modern and changes with the seasons, focusing on European dishes with a bit of flair. They're big on natural wines too, which is always a good sign.
We tried the fried feta with honey and walnuts, which was a really nice start. It came with a fresh salad of peaches, tomatoes, and ricotta that cut through the richness perfectly. For mains, they do some seriously hearty stuff. The venison haunch we saw looked like something out of a medieval feast, complete with bonbons and a rich damson sauce. It’s the kind of place where you can have a really satisfying, flavour-packed meal.
The Clarence Tavern manages to blend its historic pub feel with a forward-thinking menu that celebrates seasonal ingredients. It’s a great spot for a substantial meal that feels both comforting and exciting.
Here's a little taste of what you might find:
Fried feta with honey, walnuts, and a seasonal salad
Venison haunch with damson sauce and venison bonbons
A selection of European-inspired seasonal mains
Desserts and a well-curated wine list
7. Marksman
The Marksman on Hackney Road is a proper East London gem, really nailing that sweet spot between a traditional pub feel and seriously good food. It’s the kind of place you can pop into for a pint and end up staying for a full-on feast. They’ve got this knack for taking classic British grub and giving it a bit of a creative twist, making everything feel both familiar and exciting.
Their curried lamb buns with lime yoghurt are an absolute must-try, and if you’re with a group, sharing a big chicken and chanterelle pie is always a winner. They also do some more refined dishes, like monk’s beard with artichokes and chickpeas, which shows they’re not afraid to experiment. For dessert, the brown butter and honey tart is legendary, apparently. It’s a spot that’s definitely earned its reputation for gastropub excellence.
Here’s a little taste of what you might find on their menu:
Curried lamb buns
Chicken and chanterelle pie
Hake with white beans and brown crab
Aylesbury duck with mash and pickled prunes
Brown butter and honey tart
It’s a place that feels both comfortable and a bit special, perfect for a relaxed evening meal or a more celebratory occasion. They manage to keep the pub atmosphere alive while serving food that’s genuinely impressive.
8. Jugged Hare
Right then, let's talk about the Jugged Hare. This place in Barbican really leans into a certain kind of aesthetic – think mounted stag heads and stuffed birds. It’s a bit of a throwback, but in a rather swanky way. They even name themselves after a classic British dish, though the actual jugged hare is only around for a specific part of the year, usually from August through to February.
Their menu is pretty varied. You can find things like potted rabbit, some hearty pies, and good quality steaks. They also do a rotisserie chicken and a roast cod dish. It feels like they're aiming to give you proper, satisfying food. For those who like a bit of tradition, the desserts are old-school, which is a nice touch. However, if you're vegetarian, you might find the options a bit limited here.
The vibe is definitely geared towards those who appreciate classic British game and hearty fare. It's a place that doesn't shy away from its theme, making it a memorable spot for a meal.
They've got a decent selection of drinks too, so whether you're into real ale or a good bottle of wine, you should be well catered for. It's a gastropub that feels quite established and confident in what it does.
9. Coach
Tucked away in Clerkenwell, The Coach is a bit of a gem that really knows how to blend the familiar comfort of pub grub with a touch of something a bit more special. It’s the kind of place where you can get a proper, hearty meal but with a bit of a French twist thrown in.
They’ve got a Michelin Bib Gourmand, which tells you something about the quality. It’s not just about throwing some meat and potatoes on a plate; there’s real thought gone into the cooking here. Think dishes like potted shrimp served with toast, or a rich ox cheek pie that’s slow-cooked to perfection. And if you’re feeling adventurous, their aged beef tartare with bone marrow is something else.
It’s a great spot if you fancy a pub lunch that feels a bit more refined than your average, but without losing that cosy, satisfying pub vibe. They manage to take classic British ideas and give them a bit of a sophisticated, French-inspired makeover.
The Coach proves that pub food doesn't have to be predictable. It’s about taking good, honest ingredients and treating them with skill and a bit of flair, resulting in dishes that are both comforting and exciting.
Here’s a look at some of the things you might find on their menu:
Potted shrimp with toast
Ox cheek pie
Aged beef tartare with bone marrow
Seasonal small plates
Well-chosen ales and wines
10. Anchor & Hope
The Anchor & Hope, tucked away near Waterloo, has been serving up seriously good food since 2003. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t fuss too much about fancy decor, focusing instead on honest, well-made dishes. You can peek into the kitchen and see the chefs at work, which is always a nice touch. They’re big on seasonal ingredients, so the menu changes regularly, keeping things fresh and exciting.
What can you expect on your plate? Well, think along the lines of plump scallops with a zesty tangerine dressing, or perhaps a light, cheesy soufflé. For mains, they do a cracking job with slow-cooked lamb shoulder or a hearty venison stew. It’s proper, satisfying food that feels both comforting and a bit special. They also do a decent worker's lunch if you're looking for a good value midday meal.
This pub really hits the sweet spot between a traditional boozer and a proper restaurant. It’s relaxed enough for a casual pint but serves food that’s definitely a step up from your average pub fare.
They’ve got a good selection of European wines, with plenty available by the glass or carafe, so you can easily find something to go with your meal. It’s a popular spot, so booking ahead is probably a good idea, especially if you're planning a visit after a show at the Old or Young Vic theatres. It's a solid choice for anyone looking for quality food in a relaxed setting, much like its sister pub, the Clarence Tavern.
So, What Are You Waiting For?
Right then, that's a wrap on our little tour of North London's best pub food. We've seen everything from classic pies that taste like your nan used to make, to some seriously fancy dishes that you wouldn't expect to find down your local. It just goes to show, the humble pub is still a pretty big deal when it comes to good food in this city. Whether you're after a Sunday roast that'll sort you out for the week, or just a decent pint with a plate of something tasty, there's a pub out there for you. So next time you're wandering around North London, don't just grab a sandwich, pop into one of these places. You won't regret it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a pub a 'gastropub'?
A gastropub is a pub that serves really good food, kind of like a restaurant. It still has that cosy pub feel, but the food is a big focus, often using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Are these pubs good for families?
Yes, most of these pubs are very welcoming to families. Many offer special kids' menus, especially for Sunday roasts, so everyone can enjoy a nice meal out.
Do these pubs have vegetarian or vegan options?
Absolutely! Lots of modern pubs now offer a great selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. They put just as much care into these meals as they do with meat dishes.
What's the best time to visit for a traditional pub meal?
Sunday is a classic time for a pub meal, especially for a Sunday roast. However, many of these places serve fantastic traditional dishes like fish and chips or pies throughout the week too.
Can I expect classic dishes like fish and chips?
Definitely! While some pubs get creative, you'll still find brilliant versions of classic British pub food like fish and chips, hearty pies, and burgers at many of these spots.
Are these pubs expensive?
The prices can vary, but generally, you're getting great value for the quality of food. Think of it as a restaurant meal in a more relaxed pub setting. It's always a good idea to check their menus online if you're on a budget.