The Sunday Roast is an age-old tradition in almost every British household, and it’s one that you’re likely to be introduced to if you have chosen a homestay as your student accommodation. London, as the nation’s capital, is full of great pubs that really know how to serve this classic meal, and I for one am sure you’ll have a ‘love at first bite’ experience!
What Makes a Roast Dinner?
If you ask your host family to name some traditional English meals, the Sunday Roast is guaranteed to be on the list (along with fish & chips and jam & cream scones). The meal truly lies at the heart of British culture, and everyone has their own technique when it comes to preparing the components.
That’s one of the real joys of choosing a homestay as your student accommodation. London is full of families who enjoy the traditional meal and are keen to share it with visitors, so wherever you end up you’re sure to have the opportunity to taste the tradition.
What Will I Be Eating?
The star of the show is undoubtedly the roasted meat, which can vary from beef or lamb to chicken or pork – it all depends on personal preferences.
Then, you will get what we Brits call ‘the trimmings’, which some argue are the best part of the meal. Picture piles of steamed vegetables, crispy potatoes, golden Yorkshire puddings (a side dish made out of a batter similar to that of pancakes), all topped with a generous serving of thick, meaty gravy.
Finally, depending on the meat that is served, you’ll have a choice of sauces. Some will go for a fresh mint sauce, a spicy horseradish, fruity cranberry jelly or even bread sauce.
Where to Find the Best Sunday Roast
On a weekend, an afternoon dinner is often what brings people together and it’s a great way to really feel part of the family as a visitor. If you’re living in student accommodation, London is a great city to get new friends together, and enjoying a roast is the perfect way to do it.
Here a few places serving the very best that the city has to offer:
• Staying in Spitalfields? For an east London feast make your way to The Culpeper that’s just down the road. Alternatively, if you’re looking for dinner and a show, Galvin La Chapelle offers a Jazz Sunday Lunch from 12-3pm so you can enjoy a number of impressive jazz musicians while you eat.
• After building up an appetite exploring South Bank, tuck into a place of delicious English food at The Anchor and Hope near Waterloo Station.
• If you’re looking to embrace the tradition fully, make your way to the historic Holly Bush pub on Hampstead Heath – this well-known pub guarantees a delicious British experience.
If your mouth is watering at the thought of this delectable British tradition, make sure you choose a convenient location for your student accommodation. London is full of pubs and restaurants serving their own versions of the Sunday Roast, so take your pick and tuck in this weekend.
Sophie Smith works as an independent consultant and offers advice to young people looking for London-based student accommodation. London has a wide range of options when it comes to student living, and Sophie’s helpful suggestions make deciding where to stay even easier. Her expert tips and tricks stem from her first-hand experience studying in the city and living on a budget, so she is more than qualified to support others doing the same.
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