I tried out one of London’s most historic pubs and eateries to see if the city hotspot has stood the test of time.
Reportedly frequented by Winston Churchill during the Second World War, the Newman Arms in Fitzrovia looks every bit the traditional British pub.
With an all-red exterior and bold gold lettering, plus the Union Jack flying in the wind, you might imagine it would become something of a tourist trap.
But heading inside, the restaurant oozes class.
Downstairs more of a classic pub – albeit a slick one – while upstairs is a cosy dining room with wooden finishes and a small bar for cocktails.
The waiter welcomed us in from the pouring rain (typical London!) and within minutes we were tucked up in a warm corner of the restaurant with two of their cocktails: a Black Velvet (featuring Cremant and Murphy’s stour), and their take on an Old Fashioned with maple.
Between us, we shared a starter of king prawns, which came with a delicious seafood sauce, plus a little bowl for washing our hands in.
The seafood was succulent and moreish, but we decided against ordering another round, because the main course is exactly what the Newman Arms is known for.
In typical London fashion, the main menu is made up entirely of pies.
We opted to try the chicken, ham hock and creamed leek pie, and the aged beef shin and rib pie.
They were sensational – a true example of simplicity done right.
On the side was creamy mash, Murphy’s stout gravy, and roasted hispi cabbage – the latter of which is among the best I’ve ever tried.
We were torn between the two puddings – a chocolate cake or a cheeseboard – but decided to stick with the British theme and enjoy their fromage offerings.
Sharing between two, the board came with a Burts Blue, Shorrocks Lancashire Bomb, Ashlynn and quince membrillo – alongside some grapes and seeded crackers.
The portions were generous and easily split between us, but even more special was the atmosphere.
The waiter couldn’t have been more friendly and seemed genuinely passionate about the pub – it’s easy to see why Churchill may have been a fan.
It’s well worth a visit for tourists, but Londoners will also love the cosy, traditional vibes.
It was built way back in 1730, but has clearly stood the test of time – I won’t be at all surprised to see it still standing and thriving in another three hundred years!
