There's nothing more comforting than a hearty roast dinner to end the week, and thanks to the huge array of pubs across our city, you're never too far from a great one. But in an area like Covent Garden, where there's a tourist trap around every corner, was it possible to find a truly excellent Sunday lunch? That's what I was on a mission to find out on my trip to Crown & Anchor.
This historic boozer welcomes you with a friendly atmosphere and rich, dark interiors.
DesignMyNight Reviews Crown & Anchor Covent Garden
This Seven Dials pub has a striking exterior, deep red with a sign that proudly declares it has been around since 1904. And while the interiors remained traditional, there were a few modern touches that added to our comfort, from the cosy booth seating to the pretty plants dotted around. The two-storey venue was painted in deep, rich colours, giving it a proper local pub feel despite its central location.
We ordered drinks from the bar, a pepsi max (£4.50) and a pint of Lilley's Cherries and Berries cider (£6.80). The latter was a flat cider, which made it an unusual but pleasant drinking experience (almost like having a glass of squash), although the artificial cherry taste was a little too overpowering for me.
Feast on one of four different roast options at this Covent Garden gem.
We received our food quickly despite the pub being fairly busy, and we were greeted with a feast for the eyes as well as the tastebuds. We ordered one chicken supreme (£22), a generous piece of tender meat roasted in lemon and thyme, as well as a butternut and lentil loaf (£20), which had a stuffing-like texture and a subtly sweet flavour from the butternut squash that I loved.
Both portions were piled high in a tower of fluffy roast potatoes, juicy, glazed carrots, shredded cabbage and even crispy onions on top, all sat on a bed of parsnip puree. The chicken version also came with a Yorkshire pudding, though sadly there was no vegan version of this, but there was a good helping of gravy served with both - in a cute little jug that allowed you to pour your own.
Overall: Crown & Anchor London
This charming pub is a great place for drinks in the heart of London, but what not everyone may realise is that they also offer a spectacular Sunday roast. The Crown & Anchor Covent Garden menu offers both meat and plant-based roasts that are equally delicious, and you definitely get plenty of food for your money as well.
Book your spot at Crown & Anchor, and be sure to check out these other great Sunday roasts.
