I’ve been on a quest to find London’s best roast (it’s a hard job, but somebody’s got to do it) and, in my research, one place has come up time and time again. That, of course, is The Jugged Hare in Barbican. Nestled right next to the famed arts centre, the kitchen at this unique gastropub is led by Executive Chef Rafael Liuth, whose knowledge and passion for seasonal, high-quality British produce shines through their award-winning, meat-heavy menu – which extends to the famous Sunday roast that I was lucky enough to try this past weekend.

Cosy with traditional elements, The Jugged Hare is a great spot for Sunday lunch.

DesignMyNight Review Of The Jugged Hare's Roast

The restaurant is found at the back of the traditional-style pub on Chiswell Street, past the wall of mounted hare heads (vegetarians, beware). At first look, it’s a trendy, cosy gastropub, but when you fully survey your surroundings – you realise there’s more than meets the eye. White-tiled arched ceilings were illuminated by candle-like lamps on industrial metal shelves, with taxidermy hares and pheasants hanging over the kitchen door. The walls were a rich, ox blood red, and adorned with sketches of yet more hares, as well as the odd crowbar and hook. While the pub itself felt like a cosy hunter’s tavern, the restaurant (now this may sound a bit strange), felt very Victorian butchershop chic.

Accepting a recommendation from the waiter, we opted for a bottle of Chateau Julien Bourdeaux 2019 (£39) – a moreish, seriously drinkable red that, honestly, tasted far more expensive than it was: smooth, elegant and with subtle flavours of blackcurrent. As we eagerly sipped from our glasses, we tucked into the restaurant’s signature haggis scotch egg (£9.50). Not only did the meaty layer have a rich depth of flavour, but the inner egg was beautifully jammy – adding a gorgeous contrast of textures when met with the crunchy outer coating (and elevated even more so when slathered in the delicately tangy homemade mustard). We also delved into the charcuterie platter (£28), which had been created in-house. It really showcased what The Jugged Hare is all about - premium, local meat executed beautifully - featuring hunter's salami, smoky chorizo and more.

Everything during our The Jugged Hare booking was absolutely delicious.

Now, for the roasts (£32 each). There were four options: 45 day-aged Longhorn beef, Tamworth pork belly, Welsh leg of lamb and free-range chicken from the rotisserie. We, being the greedy little pigs we are, tried a bit of everything – and I have to say, all of it was faultless. The thick slabs of rich, aged beef were so incredibly tender and beautifully cooked that they simply melted in our mouths, while the slices of leg of lamb were the perfect side of rare. The pork belly was one of my favourites, thanks to the indulgent crunch that came from the crispy crackling (the accompanying apple sauce also deserves a special shoutout). And the chicken? I’ve never had it so tender and full of flavour before, and I loved the accompanying sides of pigs in blankets, sage stuffing and bead sauce.

The duck fat roast potatoes honestly sent me to potato heaven; golden, crispy spuds were crunchy on the inside, yet fluffy on the inside, getting 10/10 marks from me. And the Yorkshire pudding? Cloud-like, and an impressive size. Plus, the seasonal vegetables (carrots and cabbage on this occasion) were superbly fresh, retaining their delicious, natural flavours. I also have to say that the cauliflower cheese was insane. It was so indulgently gooey, without being overpowering, and the cauliflower kept a nice crunch (I find that so many places overcook this). All of this, drizzled in copious amounts of rotisserie gravy, made for one seriously fantastic Sunday roast.

If you're looking for a Sunday roast near The Barbican, don't sleep on The Jugged Hare.

To say we were full would be an understatement, but somehow my dining partner found room for dessert (making use of that second stomach, of course). The plum, oat and black treacle crumble (£9.50) was a real taste of winter, offering flavours of warming, mulled wine and plum, with caramelised oats on top - it also came with vanilla ice cream and custard which cut through the acidity beautifully. We also couldn't help but try the house cherry mead (£6 per glass), made with honey from the Camden Bee Collective and local sherry - which hit all the right notes, bringing a delightful sweet, boozy end to our hedonistic meal.

The Jugged Hare Sunday Roast: Overall

I cannot tell you how impressed I was with The Jugged Hare’s Sunday roast - I honestly couldn't fault a thing. The food was wonderful, there's no denying that - but it wasn't just the meal that bowled me over. The Jugged Hare's passion for local, British produce, and bringing traditional dishes with an elevated twist to the fore, is echoed throughout the whole venue, from the carefully thought-out menus to the unique interiors. All these elements came together for a fantastic and memorable dining experience I can't wait to come back and enjoy again.

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