London is a city that is understandably proud of its culinary heritage, and nowhere does this pride manifest better than in the traditional Sunday Roast. For hundreds of years, British people of all walks of life have sat down on a Sunday to partake in the humble, yet mighty meal of roast meat and vegetables, covered generously with gravy. As the years have passed, some recipes and variations have changed slightly but the idea remains the same: sit with friends and family and enjoy your meat of choice (or vegetarian option of course) with all the trimmings. And where better to do this than one of London’s most endearing areas with Georgian charm that encapsulates the capital's spirit just as much as the food on the platter. Here are five venues that will not only provide an excellent culinary experience but will do so in an environment that will complement the class and excellence on the plate.
The Duchess
If it's luxury you’re seeking, then one should consider the Duchess. Located a short hop from London’s iconic Oxford Street, The Duchess is a contemporary gastropub that combines deep-toned original timbers with plush leather seating, ensuring that the environment is warm and welcoming at all times. This comfortable setting means that the Duchess lends itself to a Sunday roast experience to be savoured and this is reflected in the service. The roast itself is served on stunning sharing boards, ideal for groups or couples alike. The sirloin is thick cut, the lamb shoulder is sweet, and the pork loin has crackling that will excite more than one of your senses. Along with the meat, the signature roast is served with the fluffiest Yorkshire pudding, as well as rosemary roasted potatoes that are as crunchy on the outside as they are fluffy in the middle. Sides include the extravagant, namely in the form of a truffle cauliflower cheese that must be tasted to be believed, and the traditional, with buttered greens and seasonal vegetables proving that some traditions are traditional for a reason. Add to this the rich red wine gravy, and what you get is a meal that will be spoken about long after it has left the table. If you’re seeking a smart, stylish vibe, with polished and friendly service without sacrificing elegance, then the Duchess delivers on all fronts.
The George, Great Portland Street
The George is a stunning Grade II-listed beauty that has managed to embrace and perfect contemporary British dining without losing any of its traditional heart and soul. Located a short walk from the famous Regent's Park, The George attracts a clientele that appreciates its timeless interior setting. With its marble bar tops and wood-panelled walls, the interior is guaranteed to impress, and that’s before you even lay eyes on the stunning fireplace in the centre of the room. The Sunday lunch at The George is a precise affair. The roast sirloin of beef is cooked pink, sliced thick and served alongside duck fat roast potatoes and classics like seasonal greens and tall golden Yorkshire puddings. As well as the traditional, The George adds a contemporary twist on some of the roast's classic ingredients, for example, the horseradish comes in an elegant cream and the carrots are roasted with a dash of honey and star anise. The wine list is carefully curated, with the excellently trained staff on hand to help you pick the perfect pairing for your meal. Whether seated openly by the crackling fire or comfortably tucked away in a booth, The George will give you an undeniably luxurious dining experience.
The Volunteer
If you want a truly authentic experience in a historic London pub, then look no further than the Volunteer. Place yourself in a charming 19th-century freehouse, situated on one of London’s most famous streets. If you are looking for a classic roast with no theatre or pomp, then this is the place for you. The meal itself is the star of the show here, with a rotating menu of roast meats that includes all the staples you expect. Succulent beef, crispy pork belly and chicken roasted to perfection, all served alongside an array of side dishes to elevate the experience. The Yorkshire Puddings are as attractive to the eye as they are to the taste buds, the pigs in blankets are a particular highlight, and with the addition of the savoy cabbage and honey-glazed parsnips, the meal is complete with all of the classics you would expect on a roast. Authenticity imbues every facet of the Volunteer, an honest venue serving honest food and a must for lovers of the classic pub Sunday lunch.
Home Marylebone
Bathed in natural light and adorned beautifully with trailing greenery and foliage, Home Marylebone is a botanical wonder that is a perfect alternative for people wanting something more than a classic dining setting. Its aesthetic is modern and warm, eschewing wooden panelling and thick carpets in favour of soft textures and earthy tones. Home is now a go-to for those who want their roast (and Sunday roast experience) to be both culinary and visually fresh. The kitchen offers a trio of roast options: corn fed chicken, a sirloin of beef and a somewhat standout mushroom and quinoa wellington that is guaranteed to satisfy both veggie and carnivore alike. Sides are no less considered than the main events, with crispy roast potatoes, crisp greens and maple-brushed carrots all shining especially when covered in sumptuously smooth gravy. A particular standout, the Yorkshire puddings arrive golden, crispy yet soft. It’s not just food that shines; Home has a dazzling cocktail menu that complements the food on offer. If you desire a relaxed roast, with plant-forward options in beautiful surroundings, Home Marylebone is perfect and does not compromise on quality.
The Prince Regent
Nestled into the side of a Marylebone high street, The Prince Regent offers a traditional roast, served with some old-world charm and a jazz backing. The venue feels like a true gem, a real local secret that is passed around by in-the-know locals when they meet at the shops or outside the school gates. Vintage details such as wood panelling and flickering candlelight mix to transform this beautiful pub into one of the area’s most vibrant dining spots. Their roast menu featuring beef, lamb and chicken is classic and robust, accompanied by their delicious savoury gravy and all of the trimmings that you expect, with some unexpected flourishes such as roasted roots, minted peas and salty buttered leeks. As well as the main, there’s a great selection of real ales and wines, that when joined at the table by the effortlessly timeless classic desserts (think sticky toffee pudding and crumble with custard), makes this Sunday experience rival any you might have had before. On select Sundays, the Prince Regent hosts live jazz afternoons that transform a Sunday lunch into a whole event, accompanied by finest roasts and an atmosphere that’s full of character.
A merging of taste and atmosphere, a Sunday roast in Marylebone turns out to be the perfect way to spend the best day of the week with people who matter in places that matter. Whether it’s the formality and excellence of The George, the warmth of the Volunteer, or the fresh contemporary ambience of Home, there’s a table waiting for you at one of these exemplary spots where the roast is not just a meal but an experience to be remembered.
