The Bull & Last
Hampstead, London
Sited close to Hampstead Heath, this updated 19th-century coaching inn is much loved for its comfortable country pub atmosphere, contemporary British cooking and on-the-ball service. Major refurbishment has added several guest bedrooms but most of the traditional look and feel has been preserved – the trademark taxidermy bull heads are still mounted above the bar. A daily-changing menu is underpinned by seasonal produce – a first course of cauliflower cheese croquettes was the star performer during our lunchtime visit. Tender-cooked florets were coated in creamy cheese sauce, encased in light batter, fried to splinter-sharp crunchiness and served with tarragon mayonnaise. Our second starter was also a winner – smoked trout, flaked and folded with lemony cream cheese and fresh dill, worked a treat with pickled cucumber and the treacle-like sweetness of soda bread. Other summery highlights included a crisp-fried courgette flower, filled with goat’s cheese and surrounded by tahini and roast aubergine purée. Save space for pudding – we sunk a spoon into the roasted apricot fool, layered with lemon-curd parfait and apricot sorbet. Although most customers come here to eat, this is also a pub for tipplers who like to perch at the bar and perhaps snack on the kitchen’s legendary Scotch eggs. British craft beers are complemented by selected European and New World wines.
Dining Information:
Accommodation, Private dining room, Separate bar, Counter seating, Wheelchair access, Family friendly, Dog friendly
168 Highgate Road, Hampstead NW5 1QS
020 7267 3641
