Tucked away under the Barbican in London, on a street corner sits an unassuming gastropub – The Jugged Hare. Looking in from the outside you could be quick to dismiss, as the smallish bar area often looks rammed. It’s worth popping in and seeing if they have a table in their large restaurant which extends down the side of the building. Oh, and don’t be put off by their taxidermy!!

I have visited The Jugged Hare on numerous occasions, working my way through their delicious menu! The menu is full of good hearty fare, with generous portions and delicious flavours, changing with the seasons.

On this particular visit (an appropriate dark, wet January evening), I hit it lucky, the bar busy as usual but there was space for one in the restaurant. And there was on thing for sure I was having, their signature dish – Jugged Hare! But first, a starter of Braised Hogs Cheeks with black pudding and aged cheddar mash – this was a tasty and hearty dish, creamy cheesy mash and beautfully tender Braised Hogs Cheek. Warming and needed on such a wintery evening.

Next up, was the main event, the Jugged Hare, served with Mashed Potato, Cabbage and Bacon, served in a jug! Because I needed more meat and mash! Another tasty dish, the hare (something I haven’t had before) was delish, tender with a moreish gravy. The Cabbage and Bacon were a great accompaniment to the rich hare.

Naturally there was dessert, and I went for a another light dish of a Dark Chocolate Tart, with Blackberry Jam and Whipped Creme Fraiche, which was delicious and the perfect way to end a great meal. Well that, and a Sea Salt Old Fashioned, with Toasted Marshmallows

I have always had a consistently great meal and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to others. If you find yourself in the Farringdon/ Barbican area and fancy some tasty warming fare, then The Jugged Hare is definitely worth a visit.