Who doesn’t love the tradition of Sunday lunch? At Black Ivy, we know how essential this meal is, especially here in the UK where it’s taken incredibly seriously. Debates around what makes the ‘perfect’ Sunday roast can go on for hours—and with good reason!
In this blog, we’ll bring you a roundup of the best Sunday roasts in the UK. Whether you’re looking for a cosy pub in your neighbourhood or a chic gastropub with vegetarian options, we’ve got you covered.
Our list includes everything from the comforting piles of roast meat and hearty servings of gravy to satisfying mountains of carbs. There’s truly something for every palate!
Keep in mind that these spots do fill up quickly! That’s why we always recommend booking in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
Keep reading to see for yourself why these meals have become city favourites.
1. Black Ivy, Edinburgh
At Black Ivy in Bruntsfield, Edinburgh, we cherish the essence of Sunday – a day for splendid food, excellent company, and utter relaxation. We take pride in offering you a carefree Sunday with our exquisite Sunday Roast Dinner, available from 12 pm to 10 pm.
It’s the ideal setting for any occasion, whether it’s a special family gathering, a catch-up with close friends, or simply a delightful treat to wrap up your weekend.
Curious about what the best Sunday Roast in Black Ivy entails?
At Black Ivy, we’ve mastered the art of this beloved tradition. Our guests have three delectable options to choose from, ensuring there’s something to suit every palate:
- Striploin of Scottish Beef
- Chicken Supreme
- Vegan Nut Roast
Each option is served with all the classic trimmings: fluffy roast potatoes, honey roast carrots and parsnips, seasonal greens, and a giant Yorkshire pudding, all smothered in our homemade silky gravy. This feast is available for only £21, embodying both luxury and value.
For those with a heartier appetite, we offer additional tasty sides such as cauliflower cheese, mac & cheese, and blackened bacon sprouts. Our extensive drinks menu features a wide range of wines, crisp tank beer, and delicious cocktails, perfect for concluding your meal.
Black Ivy is a destination where comfort meets sophistication in the heart of Bruntsfield. Known for its stylish décor and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to unwind.
Signature Dish
Sunday roasts at Black Ivy are considered a whole event for us.
Our Sunday Roast menu stars the finest cuts such as our tender Striploin of Scottish Beef, which is slow-cooked to perfection, and our Chicken Supreme, juicy and bursting with flavour.
And don’t worry, for our plant-based patrons, the Vegan Nut Roast offers a rich, satisfying alternative that never compromises on taste.
Each dish is designed not just to satisfy hunger but to celebrate the rich tradition of Sunday roasts with a dash of Black Ivy flair.
Unique Features
We are all about the details. From the locally sourced ingredients that support nearby producers to our in-house culinary techniques that bring out the best in every cut of meat and vegetables, we’re dedicated to quality.
Regulars rave about our giant, airy Yorkshire puddings and the rich, homemade gravy that’s a recipe perfected over the years.
These aren’t just sides; they’re the co-stars of our Sunday show, crafted to complement your choice of roast perfectly and enhance the meal’s overall comfort and satisfaction.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
When you step into Black Ivy for Sunday lunch, you’re entering a space where every element is tailored for enjoyment.
Our team’s warm, attentive service makes you feel right at home, and the setting—a stylish blend of comfort and elegance—creates the perfect backdrop for a leisurely afternoon.
At Black Ivy, dining is an experience designed to be shared—not just at the table, but across your social feeds too!
Every aspect, from the meticulously plated dishes to the elegantly cosy setting, is picture-perfect. Imagine the likes rolling in when you post a snapshot of our Sunday Roast, complete with its mouth-watering sides and stylish backdrop. It’s the kind of place that makes your friends ask, “Where is this!?”
Wrapping up your weekend in Edinburgh? Make it memorable with a Sunday at Black Ivy. If you need more than just a meal, Black Ivy also offers luxurious, classy hotel accommodations in Edinburgh to turn your visit into an unforgettable stay.
Our roasts aren’t just delicious—they’re a feast for the eyes too, ensuring every post is as envy-inducing as it is appetising. With our friendly service and warm ambience, you’re sure to enjoy a good meal all while creating moments worth sharing.
So, book a table, drop by, dig in, and discover why our Sunday roast is more than just a meal—it’s a social sensation. Come for the flavour, stay for the good vibes, and leave with memories that everyone will want a piece of!
2. Clapton Country Club, Clapton
Located in a quaint cobbled alley in Clapton, the Clapton Country Club offers a Sunday experience that’s truly one of a kind. Stepping into this venue feels like entering another era, with its ornate chandeliers and classic parquet flooring—it’s easy to see why it’s a favoured spot for weddings and cosy gatherings.
But it’s on Sundays that this place really comes to life, transforming into a lively spot where jazz tunes float through the air from noon until evening. If you’re a fan of music and good food, you’re in for a treat.
It’s no secret that Londoners love their Sunday roast, but Clapton Country Club takes this tradition to another level. Even popstar Paloma Faith has singled it out as her favourite on Time Out’s Love Thy Neighbourhood podcast.
Why all the fuss? It’s not just about the food—it’s the whole vibe. Picture this: live jazz filling the room as you tuck into a plate piled high with mighty slabs of meat and massive Yorkshire puddings.
Signature Dish
The standout on the Sunday menu is the Free-Range Norfolk Roast Chicken. Infused with a blend of lemon, rosemary, and thyme, this dish is served with a rich array of sides: heritage carrots, parsnips, creamy leeks, and seasonal greens, all topped off with a homemade meat stock gravy and a giant, fluffy Yorkshire pudding. This dish captures the essence of a traditional Sunday roast with a gourmet twist.
Unique Features
Clapton Country Club sets itself apart with its commitment to quality and presentation.
Special ingredients like the heritage vegetables and the careful infusion of herbs in the chicken showcase their dedication to elevating the classic roast.
For those seeking a plant-based option, the Vegan Roast Butternut Squash with Pomegranate and Quinoa Stuffing is a testament to the venue’s creativity, served with vegan-friendly sides that maintain the rustic charm of traditional accompaniments.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
Its setting in an old tram shed provides a unique historical backdrop that enhances the dining experience, while the live jazz on Sundays adds a layer of cultural enrichment that is rare to find elsewhere. The ability to order the roast to your door if you live locally extends the reach of their exceptional culinary offerings, making it accessible even from the comfort of home. Clapton Country Club promises a Sunday roast experience that is both memorable and unmatched.
3. Quality Chop House, Clerkenwell
Stepping into the Quality Chop House is like stepping back in time. Established in 1869, this iconic London eatery is nestled in the bustling centre of Clerkenwell. With its dark, wood-panelled walls, chequerboard tiled floors, and candlelit tables, the restaurant embodies Victorian charm updated with a touch of modern comfort.
Known for its meat-heavy menu and atmospheric setting, Quality Chop House offers a dining experience that transcends the ordinary, making it a must-visit for those looking for a slice of London’s rich culinary history.
Signature Dish
Sunday at the Quality Chop House showcases a set roast menu that is a true homage to traditional British cuisine.
The star of the show is undoubtedly the Berkshire chop—juicy, fatty, and cooked to perfection, paired exquisitely with the restaurant’s legendary confit potatoes.
These potatoes are a masterpiece in themselves; thinly sliced and fried in duck fat until they reach the pinnacle of crispy, fluffy perfection.
At £55 for a three-course set menu, this Sunday feast promises to be both indulgent and unforgettable.
Unique Features
The Quality Chop House has an entire culinary philosophy that respects tradition while celebrating high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
Special cooking methods, like the use of duck fat for the confit potatoes, highlight the restaurant’s commitment to creating uniquely delicious dishes.
The ambience, too, adds to the dining experience, with each element—from the grade II-listed pews fitted with large cushions to the Victorian-inspired décor—carefully curated to enhance the historical feel of the venue.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
What makes the Quality Chop House exceptional isn’t just its food or its history, but the way it combines these elements to create something truly memorable. It’s a place where each meal feels like a special occasion, suited for celebrations or simply treating oneself to a culinary journey through time.
Despite the premium prices, the value is evident in the quality and uniqueness of the experience. The hearty embrace of meat-centric dishes, supported by a wine list that impresses connoisseurs and casual diners alike, ensures that every visit is both a flavour adventure and a dip into a bygone era.
For those looking to capture a taste of Victorian London with a modern twist, the Quality Chop House is an unrivalled choice.
4. Harwood Arms, Fulham
Harwood Arms is a delightful mix of traditional pub charm and Michelin-starred excellence in a quiet backstreet of Fulham. Often bustling with patrons who book weeks in advance, it stands out with its rustic wood interiors, cosy atmosphere, and refined touches like ostrich feather lampshades and antler decorations.
This inviting spot marries the casual comfort of a pub with the sophistication of fine dining.
Signature Dish
The standout dish at Harwood Arms is their Sunday roast, a culinary experience well worth the wait. The menu features sharing roasts of slow-cooked fallow deer and loin and jowl of Cumbrian pork, showcasing the pub’s dedication to high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. These roasts served with all the traditional trimmings, embody the luxurious yet comforting dining experience that has earned Harwood Arms its Michelin star.
Unique Features
Harwood Arms sets itself apart with its commitment to quality and unique touches. The use of special ingredients and innovative cooking methods, such as the delicately balanced flavours in their venison pâté en croûte and mandarin trifle, highlight their culinary excellence. The seasonal approach is evident in their summer rooftop garden, which supplies fresh ingredients directly to the kitchen.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
Visiting Harwood Arms gives you the full British gastropub experience. The combination of a relaxed pub atmosphere with the precision of fine dining makes Harwood Arms uniquely appealing.
The interior, with its ritzy touches like ostrich feather lampshades and antler flourishes, offers a backdrop that is both cosy and sophisticated.
Meanwhile, the serious wine list and knowledgeable, enthusiastic staff enhance the dining experience. A meal at Harwood Arms is well worth the wait and the price, providing not just a meal but an unforgettable culinary journey.
5. Cook House, Newcastle
Cook House in Newcastle, led by the talented Anna Hedworth, has grown from a quirky shipping container eatery to a spacious, charming restaurant. This new venue offers plenty of room to enjoy Anna’s creative dishes, especially on Sundays. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed, communal dining experience that’s a bit out of the ordinary.
Signature Dish
The star of Cook House’s Sunday menu is undoubtedly the sharing of Roast Chicken. This isn’t your typical roast chicken – it’s stuffed with crème fraîche and lovage, making it incredibly flavourful and tender.
The best part? It’s designed to be carved at the table and shared with family and friends. There’s something special about everyone digging in together, turning a meal into a memorable event.
Unique Features
What really makes Cook House stand out are the unique sides that accompany the main dishes.
Forget the usual roast veggies – here, you’ll get vibrant salsa verde, giant couscous, refreshing pickled fennel and orange salad, creamy aïoli, and sweet cumin yoghurt. These inventive sides add a burst of flavour and colour, perfectly complementing the delicious main dishes.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
The atmosphere at the Cook House is warm and welcoming, making you feel right at home.
Watching families and friends share a beautifully roasted chicken and enjoying the creative sides is what Sundays at Cook House are all about.
Anna’s knack for blending traditional and innovative elements shines through in every dish, making each visit special. Whether you’re a local or just visiting Newcastle, Cook House’s Sunday roasts are a must-try. It’s a place where good food and good company come together, creating a dining experience you’ll remember.
So, next time you’re in Newcastle, reserve a table (and a chicken!) at Cook House. Enjoy a Sunday roast like no other, with dishes designed to be shared and savoured. It’s the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon, surrounded by great food and even better company.
6. Morning Star Bar, Belfast
In the heart of Belfast, the Morning Star Bar stands out as a beloved family-run restaurant.
Known for its authentic charm and warm atmosphere, this spot has earned a stellar reputation for its signature steaks and exceptionally-reviewed Sunday roasts.
Using locally sourced and sustainable ingredients, the Morning Star Bar captures the essence of traditional British cuisine while adding its own unique flair.
Signature Dish
The highlight of the Sunday menu at Morning Star Bar is their renowned Sunday roast. Whether you opt for an individual serving or a sharing roast, you’re in for a treat.
Each roast is generously accompanied by all the classic trimmings: crispy roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and rich, flavourful gravy.
The sharing roasts, available at £65, are perfect for family gatherings or a special meal with friends, while individual roasts start at a reasonable £15.95.
Unique Features
What sets the Morning Star Bar apart is its commitment to quality and sustainability.
Every dish is crafted with locally sourced ingredients, ensuring freshness and supporting local producers. The use of traditional cooking methods, combined with a touch of modern culinary techniques, results in roasts that are both nostalgic and innovative.
The addition of unique sides and accompaniments, such as honey-glazed carrots and parsnips, adds a delightful twist to the classic roast.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
The Morning Star Bar captures the heart and soul of Belfast’s dining scene. The cosy, welcoming environment makes it the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely Sunday lunch or Sunday dinner.
The restaurant’s dedication to quality, from the sustainably sourced ingredients to the meticulous preparation of each dish, ensures a dining experience that is both memorable and satisfying.
It’s where tradition meets innovation, offering a Sunday roast that truly stands out in the city.
So, next time you find yourself in Belfast, make sure to visit the Morning Star Bar. Indulge in their famous Sunday roast, enjoy the friendly atmosphere, and savour the taste of locally sourced goodness. It’s the perfect way to experience the best of Northern Irish hospitality and cuisine.
7. Hawksmoor Edinburgh
Hawksmoor, with its low-lit, dark wood-panelled interiors, offers a quintessential British dining experience across seven locations in London, including their flagship in Spitalfields and a popular branch on the edge of Soho.
Known for its top-tier steaks and impeccable atmosphere, Hawksmoor has established itself as a go-to spot for those seeking a blend of tradition and sophistication. The ambience, characterised by exposed brickwork, leather banquettes, and emerald-green booths, provides a cosy yet refined setting perfect for any occasion.
Signature Dish
The star of Hawksmoor’s Sunday menu is their unparalleled Sunday roast lunch, often hailed as the best in the UK.
This culinary masterpiece features moist slices of slow, charcoal-roasted beef rump, topped with rich bone marrow and onion gravy. The roast is served on a bed of sweet sliced carrots, cabbage, and shallots, accompanied by a fluffy Yorkshire pudding, zingy horseradish, and a giant bulb of roasted garlic to spread onto the crispy beef dripping roast potatoes.
Each element is crafted to perfection, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Unique Features
Hawksmoor’s commitment to quality is evident in every dish they serve.
The Sunday roast stands out due to its meticulous preparation and exceptional ingredients. A whole rump of 35-day dry-aged beef is super-slow cooked, first over real charcoal and then finished in the oven.
This process imparts a unique, smoky flavour that sets it apart from other roasts. Accompanying sides like buttered greens, cauliflower cheese, and crispy yet fluffy Yorkshire puddings add to the feast, all ready to be drenched in their signature bone marrow gravy.
Hawksmoor also offers a new Sunday Feasting menu, designed to elevate the traditional roast experience. Sharing sides and additional trimmings makes the meal even more indulgent, perfect for a leisurely Sunday spent with family and friends.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
The relaxed yet attentive service makes diners feel at home, whether they’re enjoying a solo lunch with a newspaper or a gathering with loved ones.
The restaurant’s dedication to sourcing the finest ingredients ensures that every dish, from award-winning beef to sustainable British seafood, is of the highest quality.
Hawksmoor’s unwavering commitment to animal welfare and quality is evident in their offerings. The beef comes from grass-fed, traditionally reared cattle, while the seafood is sustainably sourced.
This dedication to excellence extends to their wine and cocktail bars, which complement the dining experience perfectly.
Hawksmoor promises a dining experience that is both comforting and extraordinary. Their renowned Sunday roast, combined with a welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service, makes it a must-visit destination for any food enthusiast.
So, next time you’re in London, Manchester, Liverpool, or Edinburgh, book a table at Hawksmoor. Savour the best of British cuisine and experience a Sunday roast that truly sets the standard.
8. Kyloe, Edinburgh
Another one in Edinburgh is Kyloe which stands out as a premier destination for roast dinner enthusiasts.
This renowned restaurant has earned accolades for its exceptional Sunday roasts, consistently ranking among the best in Scotland and the UK. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect place for gatherings, whether you’re with family or friends. With a reputation built on quality and tradition, Kyloe offers an unparalleled dining experience that celebrates the art of the perfect roast.
Signature Dish
Kyloe’s signature Sunday roast is a gourmet feast designed for sharing, featuring 28-day dry-aged rump steak or sirloin steaks, expertly carved at the table.
This roast is available in portions suitable for 2, 4, or 6 adults, with prices starting at £55 for 500g, £110 for 1kg, and £165 for 1.5kg.
The dish is accompanied by an array of unlimited sides, including fluffy Yorkshire puddings, duck fat roasted potatoes, rich pan gravy, roasted organic root vegetables, creamed cabbage, and hot horseradish cream.
To round off the meal, a sharing Sticky Toffee pudding with ice cream is served, adding a sweet finish to a sumptuous meal.
Unique Features
What sets Kyloe apart is its commitment to using the finest ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
The beef, sourced from the Scottish Borders, is dry-aged for 28 days, ensuring a depth of flavour and tenderness that is second to none. The carving of the roast at the table adds an element of theatre to the dining experience, making it both interactive and memorable.
The sides, unlimited and meticulously prepared, complement the main dish perfectly, from the crispy, golden duck fat roasted potatoes to the decadent Yorkshire puddings flowing with homemade pan gravy.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
Kyloe is all about bringing people together to enjoy good food and great company. The accolades speak for themselves: winners of the best roast dinner in Scotland in 2016 and 2017, and previously the best roast in Britain in 2013. These awards underscore Kyloe’s dedication to excellence and its ability to consistently deliver outstanding roasts.
The restaurant’s focus on quality, from sourcing the finest local ingredients to employing expert chefs, ensures that every dish served is of the highest standard. The warm, hospitable environment, coupled with the spectacular food, makes Kyloe a standout choice for those looking to indulge in a top-tier Sunday roast.
Reservations are essential, as Kyloe does not accept walk-ins for their Sunday roasts. This ensures that every guest receives the best possible service and dining experience. Available every Sunday between 12.30 pm and 5 pm, these roasts must be booked by Friday at 4 pm.
For anyone seeking the pinnacle of Sunday roasts, Kyloe in Edinburgh is a must-visit!
9. Blacklock, Soho
Blacklock, with its four chophouses across London, offers a unique and seductive dining experience, particularly at its Soho location.
Housed in a building with a notorious past as a lap dancing club and brothel, the Soho venue exudes a sleek, captivating charm. Known for its convivial atmosphere and exceptional meat dishes, Blacklock has become a staple for those seeking a hearty and memorable Sunday roast.
Signature Dish
Blacklock’s Sunday roast is a feast for the senses, featuring whole joints of meat roasted over open coals.
Diners can choose from beef rump, lamb leg, pork loin, or a celeriac roast for vegetarians.
Each roast is accompanied by golden Yorkshire puddings, parsnips, tenderstem broccoli, and duck fat roast potatoes drenched in thick, rich gravy.
The experience begins with a choice of hangover-busting cocktails, such as a Bloody Mary or a Breakfast Martini with orange marmalade, setting the perfect tone for a leisurely Sunday meal.
Unique Features
The meat from Blacklock is roasted over open coals, imparting a unique, smoky flavour that sets it apart from traditional roasts.
The addition of apple ketchup adds a tangy twist, enhancing the flavours of the meat and vegetables.
Sides like the bubbling, creamy cauliflower cheese and roasted pumpkin covered with parmesan provide a delicious complement to the main dishes, making the meal both indulgent and satisfying.
Established in the 1690s, chophouses became the beating heart of towns and cities across the country, serving various cuts of meat attached to the bone for added flavour.
Reliable and honest, the chophouse was a welcoming home for all, whether it be for languid lunches, high business, or family feasts. Blacklock champions the chophouse tradition, staying true to its unpretentious and familiar roots, and above all, remaining open to all.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
The Soho location, with its intriguing backstory and seductive ambience, adds an element of excitement to any dining occasion. The expertly prepared roasts, coupled with the unique sides and accompaniments, ensure that every bite is a delight.
Blacklock’s commitment to quality, from the selection of meats to the meticulous preparation of each dish, guarantees a dining experience that is both hearty and refined. The convivial atmosphere, enhanced by the friendly and attentive staff, makes it an ideal spot for gathering with friends and family.
So if you want to enjoy a traditional Sunday roast with a twist or simply want to savour the best of what London’s chophouses have to offer, Blacklock in Soho is the place to be.
Its combination of exceptional food, unique setting, and welcoming environment makes it a standout choice for any roast dinner enthusiast.
So next time you’re in London, make sure to book a table at Blacklock.
10. The Star Inn, Harome, North Yorkshire
Tucked away in the scenic village of Harome, right in the North Yorkshire Moors, you’ll find The Star Inn—a cosy 14th-century pub that feels like it’s straight out of a storybook.
It’s run by Andrew Pern, a chef who’s not only passionate about food but also about making sure every ingredient has a story. Most of these stories begin in his own kitchen garden, where a lot of the produce for your meal is grown.
Signature Dish
Now, let’s talk about what you’re really here for—the food. The Star’s Yorkshire Pudding Royale is something else. Imagine tucking into a fluffy Yorkshire pudding that’s packed with luxurious black truffle shavings and rich foie gras, all swimming in a savoury Madeira gravy.
It’s the kind of dish that makes you understand why people make Sunday roasts such a big deal!
Unique Features
Not to mention the vibe at the Star Inn. They’re all about bringing people together to enjoy good times and great food.
It’s got open fires, quirky low beams, and even wonkier walls that really make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. And it’s not just about looking good—the place has a Michelin star to show for its culinary chops.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
If you’re after more than just a meal, if you’re looking for an experience that feels like a warm Sunday at grandma’s but with a gourmet twist, then you need to head to The Star Inn.
It’s been named the Best Sunday Lunch in the World by Lonely Planet for good reasons.
So, gather your loved ones, make a trip out to Harome, and make those Sunday lunches a new family tradition. Trust us, The Star Inn is the kind of place you’ll want to tell everyone about.
Explore the Top 10 Sunday Roasts in the UK
After exploring the top 10 Sunday roast spots across the UK, it’s clear that no matter what occasion you’re toasting to on a Sunday, these destinations are a must-visit.
Start your gastronomic journey at Black Ivy, where the roast is as legendary as the ambience.
Remember, these popular spots fill up fast, especially on weekends. To ensure you get a table and avoid any disappointments, we highly recommend booking in advance.
As you plan your visits, consider turning each meal into a mini-adventure.
Explore the neighbourhood, take in the local sights, and maybe even make a day of it.
Whether you’re a roast connoisseur or a curious newcomer, each of these top 10 locations offers a unique slice of British culinary tradition that promises not just a meal, but an experience worth savouring.
Don’t just take our word for it; dive into the delicious, hearty world of Sunday roasts and make your Sundays something truly special and see for yourself!
