Where? The refurbed 1930s boozer in Gospel Oak, now a stylish destination with original fireplaces, and reclaimed wooden floors. There’s a corker of a ‘secret’ garden to boot, with cosy booths, table service and festoon lights.
What? Free range seared skin-on chicken breasts, cooked so on-point that they carve like butter, with crispy smoked bacon and spring greens. The dish comes with an ickle jug of sauce, the creamy chicken stock and parsley adding a further degree of luxuriousness. Full marks for imaginative presentation, too.
Don’t: Ignore the (pricier) starters, if you’re making a meal of it. We particularly rate the heritage tomatoes with basil ice (£7.50) and guinea fowl, polenta and leeks (£8.50). The bar menu has cheaper options too, including superior toasted sarnies (£5), a gorgeous Scotch egg (£5) and sharing charcuterie board (£8).
Notes: It’s owned by The Grafton so standards are high throughout, although service can sometimes be uncertain. Still, the garden is everso lovely to lounge in with one of the many craft beers, like Four Pure or Lawless.
