Heaven in Highgate

The food and service were exceptional when I took friends visiting town to the Bull and Last. I’d heard great reviews, and it certainly deserves its place in the Michelin guide. We had beef tartare to start and onglet for the main. The beef, apparently sourced from the owner’s farm, was top quality. Looking forward to going back.

Alan kindly showed me some of the guest rooms, and if you’re visiting the area, I can’t imagine a better place to stay. I’d say go for at least two nights, or more if you can. He also recommended a glass of San Joanne Terroir Mineral Branco - Vinho Verde 2022, which was the best white wine I’ve had anywhere. I liked it so much I bought a bottle to take home for Christmas Day. Alan is the assistant manager, and he made an already outstanding lunch even better. The pub sits right on the edge of Hampstead Heath, which is perfect for a wander before or after lunch. I found it after picking up Hunter Davies’s book The Heath at Daunts near Hampstead Heath station, where he writes a whole chapter about this lovely pub. The cooking and drinks are excellent. I started with an amazing, beautifully presented mushroom and cream soup, then had a delicious buttermilk fried chicken sandwich. The spicy Margarita was superb too. For quality, the food and alcoholic drinks can easily compete with Mayfair, and I’ll be back.

The bed was comfortable, the decor was beautiful, and all the little touches were lovely. The location was perfect, especially for a morning swim in the Lido. I felt really safe here on my own as a woman, and I’ll definitely come back.

I spent at least two hours here on my own and could easily have stayed longer. The wine was exceptional, and the fish and chips were excellent, comforting, and just right for the place. Families were all around, dogs were tucked under tables, and the relaxed, lively atmosphere felt like home. I loved it so much that I immediately thought I wanted to live nearby. The Bull & Last is exactly the kind of cosy, welcoming neighbourhood pub that makes you fall for an area. A perfect London spot, and I’d return in a heartbeat.