With bargain prices and proper British food, this pie and mash house is something of an anomaly among the tourist traps of Covent Garden Market. It’s housed in one of the refurbished subterranean arches, keeping the traditional exterior and flagstone floor, but the fixtures and fittings are stylish and modern: bright white tiles, polished marble tables and a shiny counter.
Besides the traditional fillings such as steak and stout, minced beef and onion, or chicken and mushroom are less expected versions such as butternut squash and goat’s cheese. They all have pleasingly firm crusts and sides of mash are well-whipped and creamy. Rich red-wine gravy arrived separately in a miniature jug. Ingredient quality was exemplary throughout – so much so that, even though full, we attempted to finish a sticky toffee pudding, also tip-top, between two of us.
Even for a counter-service place this little caff is terrific value – and is the exception to the rule that central Covent Garden is best avoided by the bargain hunter.