The Red Lion & Sun

The daily menu goes live online at 11 am sharp, a morning ritual that signals just how seriously the kitchen takes its output here. While the Red Lion & Sun occupies a site that has hosted a pub since the 16th century, the current iteration operates with the precision of a dedicated restaurant wrapped in the casual skin of a Highgate local. Inside, the dark mahogany typical of London drinking dens is swapped for a brighter, New England boathouse aesthetic – white walls, pale timber, and a wood-burning stove that anchors the room during colder months. The kitchen sources ingredients from Highgate butchers and Cornish day boats, turning out rustic modern British dishes like beef and bone marrow pie, fresh oysters, or Basque cheesecake. The wine list is equally substantial, curated personally by owner Heath Ball with a depth that consistently earns industry awards. In warmer weather, the crowd spills into two separate outdoor spaces. The front garden is covered by a marquee to keep things moving regardless of the forecast, while the rear garden remains open to the elements. Sundays are a distinct operation, dominated by a roast that draws significant crowds. You’ll need to navigate strict booking windows – tables are often limited to 90 minutes for smaller groups – unless you secure a spot after 7:30 pm. It is dog-friendly throughout, so expect to step around a few locals’ pets on your way to the bar.