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It was while seeking refuge from that classic British combo of an iron grey sky and persistent sideways drizzle that we entered The Pig’s Head in Clapham Old Town. Thankfully, as dogs and humans alike shook off the rain, the warm, rustic ambience made it feel like we’d found it.
Whatever the weather, this independent gastropub is still likely to impress. The Pig’s Head was set up by husband and wife duo, Scott and Maria Hunter, in 2021 with two modest goals: to be the best pub in Clapham and the most sustainable pub in the UK. And while the crown for ‘best’ is still up for fierce debate, it’s fair to say that the pub’s Carbon Neutral status definitely puts them in the lead for the latter.
“The menu is where The Pig’s Head really begins to show its sustainability creds"
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They’re also, as luck would have it, proudly pup friendly. Immediately our dog (Harry the Chiweenie) was treated to lots of fuss, a bowl of water and some of the complimentary doggy treats displayed on the bar. Suitably settled by a spacious table, we then turned our attention to the important bit – the food.
The menu is where The Pig’s Head really begins to show its sustainability creds. Serving up a different menu every day, the dishes available are all made with fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from trusted British suppliers that hold the same eco-friendly values.
We opted to try the beer battered beef lasagne, the Lyons Hill Farm braised beef blade (turns out that’s a little-known shoulder cut not a weapon) and duck on a sourdough crumpet with fermented chilli butter. We also added on a few portions of beef dripping chicken salt chips – because who could resist that?
“Who knew deep fried lasagne could taste so good?”
All of the food was packed with flavour. Who knew deep fried lasagne could taste so good? The beef was tender and shredded at the lightest touch, while the fermented chilli butter on the duck crumpet dish had just the right amount of kick. And the chips, it probably goes without saying, were amazing.
All of the humans present were far too stuffed for dessert, so instead we treated Harry to a portion of doggy ice cream. While that was being enthusiastically slurped we polished off our red wine – which they offer on tap to reduce the number of bottles they need to recycle.
With its country pub charm and fantastic ever-evolving menu, The Pig’s Head is an excellent Clapham spot for a mid-week treat or a Sunday roast extravaganza. Yes, it is a little on the expensive side for a gastropub, but it’s a price worth paying if quality food and sustainable sourcing is top of your foodie agenda. And while dogs aren’t the focus, they’re happily accommodated by the friendly staff and made to feel very welcome. Overall, a solid four paws from us.
Want to discover more dog-friendly places to eat in London? Check out our top five picks.
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