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| The Best Places for Sunday Roast in London: A Foodie's Guide |
A traditional Sunday roast is a quintessential British weekend ritual. Families and friends gather together to indulge in tender, slow-cooked meats, crispy roasted potatoes, rich gravy, and all the trimmings. For Londoners, Sunday lunch is serious business. The city offers no shortage of excellent Sunday roast options, from homey neighborhood pubs to Michelin-starred restaurants. This guide will take you on a mouthwatering tour of the top places to enjoy the best Sunday roasts in London. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, get ready for a feast!
The History and Significance of the Sunday Roast
While many cultures have their own weekend food traditions, few rival the grandeur and popularity of the British Sunday roast. But where did this indulgent meal originate? Some historians believe that the tradition has its roots in medieval “dinner” feasts, where local villages would gather for a large midday meal after church services. During the Industrial Revolution, upper and middle class families made time for an elaborate Sunday lunch. Blue collar workers in Britain also looked forward to hot roast dinners as a satisfying respite from a week of cold sandwiches at the factory.
Over the centuries, the traditional Sunday roast has become ingrained in British food culture. More than just a meal, it’s an occasion for families to come together, relax, and enjoy each other’s company over heaping plates of food. The roast dinner offers a sense of continuity and community. It’s the perfect antidote to the stresses of modern life. For Londoners, it’s the culinary highlight of the week.
What to Expect in a Traditional Sunday Roast
While regional variations exist across Britain, the classic Sunday roast generally includes:
Roast meat - The star of the show. Popular options include beef, pork, lamb, chicken, turkey, or game meats like venison or pheasant.
Yorkshire pudding - The beloved puffy side made from egg batter traditionally cooked in the drippings of the roast meat.
Gravy - Rich, flavorful sauce usually made from the meat juices.
Roast potatoes - Crispy, golden potatoes roasted in meat drippings or goose/duck fat.
Vegetables - Usually a medley of seasonal veggies like carrots, parsnips, peas, and broccoli.
Stuffing - Aromatic mixture of bread, herbs, and spices cooked inside the cavity of the roast bird or on the side.
Other potential sides include cauliflower cheese, mustard creamed spinach, horseradish sauce, and traditional British puddings for dessert.
Types of Places for Sunday Roast in London
From neighborhood eateries to fine dining institutions, London offers endless choices for Sunday lunch. Here are some of the most popular options:
Classic Pubs
For many Londoners, a pub is the quintessential place to enjoy Sunday roast. Cozy neighborhood pubs take great pride in their roasts. Top picks include The Holly Bush in Hampstead, The Anchor & Hope in Southwark, The Flask in Highgate, and Princess Victoria in Shepherd’s Bush. You’ll find hearty helpings of meat, Yorkshire puds, and crispy roasties, all for a reasonable price. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming.
Upscale Restaurants
London’s acclaimed restaurants also get creative with their Sunday offerings. For a true fine dining experience, book a table at restaurants like The Ledbury, The Clove Club, or Lyles. Expect immaculate service, gourmet versions of traditional dishes, premium ingredients, and thoughtful wine pairings. It’s a pricier splurge, but worth it for a special occasion.
Hotels
Many of London’s luxury hotels offer lavish Sunday roasts in their elegant restaurants, like The Ritz, The Savoy, and Claridge's. Ideal for festive family gatherings or a sophisticated dinner, hotels pull out all the stops with carving trolleys, live music, and seemingly endless courses for a first-class dining experience.
Gastropubs
Gastropubs are British pubs that offer restaurant-quality food. They combine a laidback pub vibe with creative cuisine. For innovative roasts, try The Harwood Arms in Fulham, The Crown & Shuttle in Shoreditch, or Gasworks in Waterloo. You’ll find gourmet versions of traditional dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients.
Best Dishes and Options for Sunday Lunch
Beyond the classic meat and trimmings, London’s Sunday roasts offer boundless variety. Here are some highlights:
Traditional British Roasts
Classics like roast rib of beef with Yorkshire pudding and horseradish cream never go out of style. For those who prefer poultry, butterfly roast chicken or turkey breast elegantly presented on the bone makes a beautiful centerpiece. Don’t forget the lamb - tender leg of lamb served pink with mint sauce is a winner.
Vegetable Roasts
Vegetarians need not miss out on the roast dinner experience in London. Nut roasts are a fixture on most menus. Other delicious meat-free mains include cauliflower or broccoli roasts, roasted butternut squash, garlic wild mushroom wellingtons, and veggie tarts.
Global Flavors
London’s diverse culinary scene brings world flavors to the Sunday table. Some examples include American-style BBQ brisket with mac and cheese, Persian roasted lamb shoulder with jeweled rice, Spanish roasted suckling pig, or Moroccan spiced chicken with couscous.
House Specials
Certain restaurants have their own specialty roasts that are worth trying. The Golden Hind’s fish pie contains three types of fish in a creamy sauce topped with mashed potato. St. John excels at whole roasted game birds or leg of venison. Blacklock serves prime cuts of aged roast beef by the gram.
Side Dishes
Don’t overlook the side dishes, which can really make or break a Sunday roast. Splurge on beef fat roast potatoes, honey-glazed parsnips, cheesy leeks, or creamed spinach with nutmeg. Yorkshire puddings are obligatory - be sure to order extra.
Best Areas for Sunday Roasts in London
With thousands of eateries offering Sunday lunches across London, narrowing down where to dine can be overwhelming. Here are some top areas worth exploring on your hunt for the best Sunday roast in town:
Central London
For visitors staying in central London, there are plenty of excellent Sunday roast choices. Covent Garden and Soho offer a bustling dining scene, with highlights like Balthazar for French flair. In Marylebone, The Golden Hind serves an old-school traditional feast. Bloomsbury has cozy local favorites like The Norfolk Arms.
West London & Richmond
West London neighborhoods like Chiswick and Richmond boast trendy gastropubs and riverside roasts with scenic views. Highlights include The Bull’s Head, The Devonshire, The Distillery, and the Roebuck. Don't miss Restaurant Gordon Ramsay in Chelsea for a polished fine dining experience.
East London
East London is home to numerous restaurants reimagining British cuisine, like Lyles in Shoreditch and Paradise Garage in Bethnal Green. Check out lively Sunday markets like Broadway Market or Old Spitalfields Market followed by lunch at a nearby gastropub.
Outer Borough Gems
Venture beyond central London to discover neighborhood eateries favored by locals for their top-notch roasts. Highlights include The Crown Inn in Woolwich, The Blackhorse in Walthamstow, Simpson’s Tavern in the City, and The Jugged Hare in Chiswick.
Tips for Booking the Best Sunday Roast
Here are some tips for planning an outstanding Sunday lunch in London:
Book ahead - Very popular restaurants get booked up weeks in advance for Sunday lunch. Reserve your table 1-2 weeks early.
Set a budget - Sunday roasts can range wildly in price. Set a budget to narrow down options.
Take your time - Allow a couple of hours to truly enjoy and savor the meal at a leisurely pace.
Come hungry - Bring a hearty appetite - portions are generous. Consider sharing starters and sides.
Timing matters - Lunch is generally served between 12pm-4pm. Book later for a more relaxed vibe.
Kids welcome - Many places offer kids portions/menus and highchairs. Inquire when booking if traveling with little ones.
Dietary needs - Let the restaurant know in advance about any food allergies or restrictions.
Bottomless options - Some restaurants offer bottomless roast options with endless meat carvery, unlimited gravy, and drinks packages.
Sample the sides - Don’t miss out on sampling sides like Yorkshire puds, crackling, and roasted vegetables.
Key Takeaways on London's Best Sunday Roasts
Sunday lunch is a beloved British weekend tradition, especially in London. With its phenomenal dining scene, London offers no shortage of exceptional Sunday roasts. From comforting neighborhood pubs to Michelin-starred fine dining, you’re sure to find a memorable feast to look forward to each week. Keep these key tips in mind when planning your perfect Sunday roast:
Book popular restaurants 1-2 weeks in advance
Set a budget and timing
Come hungry and pace yourself - bring an appetite!
Don’t skip the classic sides like Yorkshire pudding and roast potatoes
Sample both homey traditional and gourmet global offerings
Consider both central London hotspots and outer borough hidden gems
Accommodate kids, dietary needs, and bottomless drink options if desired
So gather your family, friends, colleagues, or visitors and get ready to indulge. A hearty Sunday roast is the ultimate comfort food and a wonderful excuse to relax and savor the finer things in life. From traditional trimmings to international flavors, London’s Sunday lunch game is strong. Grab a seat at one of these fantastic roast dinner destinations, and get ready to loosen your belt and leave happy. Cheers to the best of British food traditions!
Frequently Asked Questions About Sunday Roasts in London
Looking to find the perfect Sunday roast in London? Get answers to the most common questions with this helpful FAQ guide.
What time is Sunday lunch typically served in London?
Most Sunday roasts are served between 12pm-4pm for lunch. If you book later afternoon (after 3pm), it tends to be more relaxed with less crowds. The most popular time is around 1-2pm when restaurants are buzzing with diners.
How far in advance should I book a table?
For popular restaurants, book your table 1-2 weeks in advance to secure a reservation. Top spots get booked up quickly. Last minute walk-ins on Sundays are unlikely.
How much does a typical Sunday roast cost in London?
Costs range widely, but expect to pay anywhere from £15-£30 per person at an average pub, and £30-£50+ at higher-end restaurants. Set a budget beforehand and check menu prices.
What are the most important elements of a traditional Sunday roast?
Don't miss the roast meat, Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, seasonal veggies, and gravy. Stuffing, horseradish, and mustard are also hallmarks of a proper British Sunday lunch.
What are the best vegetarian and vegan Sunday roast options?
Nut roasts, cauliflower/broccoli cheeses, roasted veggie and pulse patties, mushroom wellingtons, and butternut squash or beetroot roasts are all popular meat-free mains. Ask about vegan gravy.
Which restaurants offer kid-friendly Sunday roasts in London?
Many Sunday menus have kids portions, activity sheets, and highchairs. Good family-friendly options include The Holly Bush, The Anchor & Hope, and Simpson's Tavern.
Are Sunday roasts offered at dinner time as well?
While less common, some gastropubs like Blacklock and Paradise Garage offer evening roasts. But lunch remains the traditional time for indulging.
What drinks pair well with a Sunday roast?
Classic pairings include British ale, lager or cider. Wine-wise, fruity Beaujolais, Valpolicella or Syrah/Shiraz complement beef; Chardonnay or Pinot Noir work with chicken or pork roasts.
Which restaurants offer bottomless or unlimited Sunday roasts?
Blacklock, Darwin & Wallace, and Roast offer unlimited meat carvery. Others like Balls & Company have bottomless gravy and Yorkshire puds. Check for pricing details.
How can I accommodate food allergies or diet restrictions?
Inform staff ahead of time of any food allergies, gluten/dairy/vegan needs etc. Most places can cater to dietary requirements, but do let them know in advance.
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