We have the Eagle to thank for the gastropub revolution. Back in 1991 the Eagle was the first of its kind to offer new wave cooking and an old fashioned pint in the same joint and now has passed into the legendary category with thousands following in its footsteps.
The scrawled blackboard menus, the open kitchen, the mix-and-match furniture and minimal service have been much imitated but the Eagle still soars high. 
It remains a cut above the newer competition; with good food being its main priority, it wins every punter in. It’s simple and effortless with its own art gallery upstairs and a stripped out bar. But they also attempt the difficult trick of being a friendly local where you can just stop in and read the paper, have a chat and a beer.
You can just pop in for one but very few do, aware they’re missing the big-flavoured likes of moreish tomato and bread soup; daisy-fresh scallops, pan-fried and served on toast with chorizo; and succulent leg of lamb with jansson’s temptation (a potato gratin-style Swedish dish). The food currently has a sunny Mediterranean slant, and there’s usually something new to discover – perhaps carabaccia (Florentine pea soup) or the joys of unpasteurised manchego with green plum jam.
It can sound exotic, although the results are rather simpler on the plate: mutton tagine with apricots and couscous or sausages with polenta and cabbage are typically homespun and served in gut-busting portions. Don’t leave without trying the famous steak sandwich – it’s truly monstrous with lots of juicy caramelised onions and lean, tender strips of succulent beef strips packed and full of flavour. Overall, the food is good and great value for money.
The choice of beers is wide and diverse, from weekly guest visitors to traditional favourites, there’s something for everyone to try. The wine list is short, good and cheap – perfect, while ale fans have Wells Bombardier and Eagle on draught.
So, in summary, despite all the competition, the place that started the gastropub revolution holds its pole position so it’s well worth a visit after or in-between work for its great food, huge portions, decent prices and no nonsense concept.
| 159 Farringdon Road, London, EC1R 3AL | Transport: Farringdon tube |
| Telephone: +44 020 7837 1353 | Opening Times: 12:00-23:00 Mon-Sat; 12:00-17:00 Sun. Lunch served 12:30-15:00 Mon-Fri; 12:30-15:30 Sat; 12:30-16:00 Sun. Dinner served 18:30-22:30 Mon-Sat. |
| Price: Main courses £5-£15 |
