Verdict
Destinations
Restaurant · London

Rules

London's oldest restaurant, a Covent Garden temple to British game, pies and Edwardian splendour.

Independent — no pay-to-rank Graded for who you are Verified 2026-06-17How we grade →
The verdict

Worth the table for…

Great for
  • Couples
  • History & culture buffs
  • Foodies
  • Photographers
Depends
  • Travellers on a budget
  • If you've only got a day
  • Families with kids
  • Solo travellers
Not for

—

Worth it for couples, history & culture buffs and foodies.

What to order

The plates that decide it

  • Seasonal game (grouse, venison) — the historic specialism — the reason to come in autumn
  • Steak & kidney pudding — a proper British classic
  • The traditional British dishes over the modern specials — the kitchen is strongest on its heritage game, pies and puddings
Why we say this

Insider secrets & local vibes

Open since 1798, it's a living piece of London history — the upstairs cocktail bar is a charmer.
Not independently verified — estimated
It leans on its heritage and pulls a tourist crowd, so the cooking can feel safe rather than thrilling.
Not independently verified — estimated
When game is in season, the kitchen does it justice — this is the place for grouse and venison.
Not independently verified — estimated
What it feels like

Reading the room, traveller by traveller

  • Families

    A good multigenerational choice for a sense of occasion and old-school British classics.

  • Couples

    Atmospheric and romantic in a period way — start with a Martini upstairs.

Good to know

Before you go

Cost
£60–90 per head
Time
2 hours
Last verified
2026-06-17
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Independent — no pay-to-rank Graded for who you are Verified 2026-06-17How we grade →