The best meat restaurants in London
Words: Gentleman's Journal
Vegetarians, look away. From the best meat-filled breakfasts to the finest burgers (a gentlemen’s staple), we’ve pulled in help from Chris Keeling of @allthingsmeaty – a true aficionado of meat, meat and more meat – to bring you the best restaurants in London to nurture the carnivore in you.
Here’s what Chris recommends:
Best for breakfast: Hawksmoor
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, especially when it comes in the shape of a Hawksmoor Big Breakfast. It includes a huge bacon chop, marrow bones, black pudding, short rib hash and trotter baked beans and more (double points if you don’t share).
Visit Hawksmoor here.
Best for BBQ: Zelman Meats
One of the top London restaurants if meat is your thing, Zelman will make you feel right at home. BBQ’d short ribs, Brazilian-style flame roasted picanha and thick slices of Chateaubriand. This meat platter hits all the right spots, but for a real treat order the Dirty Steak cooked directly on the coals.
Visit Zelman Meats here.
Best for burgers: Bleecker
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Every gentleman has to try Bleecker Burger, aka The King of Burgers. The owner, Zan, has been dominating the burger scene for years and I consider them simply the best there is. The burgers are kept simple without loads of condiments. Order the Bleecker Black – what’s more caveman than a slice of blood sausage between two beef patties?
Visit Bleecker Burger here.
Best for Sunday roast: Newman Arms
There are few better places that do a classic Sunday Roast as well as Newman Arms. The restaurant above the classic boozer serves up some amazing beef in huge portions and the most incredible roast potatoes.
Visit Newman Arms here.
Best for steak: Blacklock
I’ve eaten in almost every London steakhouse, and my recommendation for the best steak restaurant in town goes to Blacklock. They grill some of the best beef in the country, thanks to Warren’s in Cornwall. The blacktop grill gives the meat a beautifully caramelised crust. The chips with Sriracha hollandaise are something else, too. Go on Butcher’s Prices Mondays and you won’t be disappointed.
Visit Blacklock here.
Best for brisket: Smokestak
London isn’t really known for great BBQ. But don’t worry, I’ve got you grill-heads covered with this next recommendation. If you’re on the go, and you’re looking for the best BBQ this side of Texas, then look no further than Smokestak. While you’re there, make sure you order Big Dave’s brisket roll. It will knock you for a six, and the mammoth beef rib will get you crawling on your hands and knees for more.
Visit Smokestak here.
Best for sandwiches: Monty’s Deli
Monty’s Deli really can throw down with the best of them. While the Reuben may be tempting, a true meat lover will only order the Special, a double helping of salt beef and pastrami piled high on rye bread. Gherkins are the only vegetables permitted there.
Visit Monty’s here.
Tastebuds feeling a bit adventurous? Check out these exotic meats every man should try at least once.
Recommended reading: The best restaurants in the world
Follow Chris on Instagram here. Main and featured image: Burger Burger
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