Proper Pies and Great Pub Grub at Punch Tavern, Fleet Street

Last week was British Pie Week. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Whatever. I don’t need some marketeer telling me when I should and shouldn’t eat pie. So many of these calendared observances of everyday things are mere formalities seemingly cooked up for a press release and little else. They’re smart suggestions at best. Otherwise they’re just silly contrivances to shrug off. Still, a nice result of BPW 2014 was I got an invite to visit Fleet Street’s historic grade II listed Punch Tavern to savour the excellent pies prepared there by Chef Matt. Good thing for London folk, it’s pretty much pie week every week at the Punch, as the pub lists at least a couple of pies every week on its hearty British menu.

During my dine, I sampled a fantastic pheasant, partridge and bacon pie as well as one with pigeon, sweet potato and juniper. It was a tough choice even having the chance to tuck in to two different pies as the rabbit, hare, cider, mustard pie sounded like an equally appealing treat as did the veal, red wine, and olives option. Pies were served with ample mash and roasted seasonal veggies. It’s worth noting that the game used in the pies (and any dish at the tavern) is sourced from Suffolk, all shot by the chef’s uncle. Pies range in price from £8.50 for a vegetarian cheese and cauliflower pie to £11.50 for a steak pie.

No room for dessert, I was nevertheless encouraged to try the apple and cinnamon pie by some fellow enthusiastic diners on their way out. I just couldn’t though. I was completely stuffed. I did however greatly enjoy a pint of Shipyard Brewing Co’s America Pale Ale with my meal. It was one of the most satisfying beers I’ve had in awhile … and I reckon I’ve been on something of a winning streak of late with respect to coming across great beers.

In addition to the great food and drink, Punch Tavern has a singular air about it and is a lovely spot to find yourself. There’s gorgeous natural light streaming in from a glass ceiling in the main bar area, a working fireplace, and original features from 1897 such as marble bar, dark oak panelling, and a series of original Punch and Judy themed paintings.

Punch Tavern is located at 99 Fleet Street, EC4Y 1DE. Find out more at punchtavern.com.

View Larger Map