The Hunter S

Looking for that perfectly eccentric London pub where Hunter S. Thompson himself would feel right at home? The Hunter S in London's vibrant Dalston neighborhood is that gloriously oddball spot where your regular pub night morphs into something straight out of a fever dream (in the best possible way).

Let me tell you what makes this place absolutely unmissable. First off, those walls? They're basically a cabinet of curiosities that would make any conversation starter obsolete. And yes, those ARE nudie pics in the bathroom - a detail that never fails to spark hilarious group chats the next morning. But we're just getting started...

The real magic of The Hunter S happens when you settle into one of those perfectly worn-in leather booths with your crew. Picture this: you're sharing a truffle-glazed baked camembert that's basically cheese heaven, while the bartender (who somehow always remembers your name) is crafting cocktails that make you question everything you thought you knew about mixology. And did I mention they have APEROL ON TAP? Like, who even does that? These people are living in 3023.

But hold onto your hats, because we need to talk about their Beef Wellington. Oh. My. Days. This isn't just dinner - it's a religious experience wrapped in perfectly flaky pastry. It's meant for two, but I've seen grown adults nearly come to blows over the last bite. Pro tip: If someone suggests splitting it three ways, they're not your real friend.

The Sunday roasts here? They're not just meals, they're the stuff of London legend. The kind where you text your mum "sorry, found a new roast spot" and she actually understands once you send her a photo. The veggies aren't just sides - they're cooked with the kind of respect usually reserved for prime cuts of meat. And speaking of meat, it's so tender it practically starts crying when you look at it.

Here's the genius part - The Hunter S somehow manages to be both a proper pub AND a fantastic restaurant without sacrificing either vibe. You can roll in for a casual pint and end up having the best meal of your month. The staff strikes that perfect balance between professional and cheeky, like they're all in on some brilliant joke and happy to let you join in.

Dogs are welcome, which means you might make friends with the coolest four-legged pub critics in East London. The outdoor seating area becomes prime real estate when the weather plays nice (those three days a year in London, am I right?). And for winter? Those cozy corners inside feel like you're drinking in your eccentric uncle's living room - if your uncle had impeccable taste in both decor and drinks.

Let's talk logistics because you're going to want to do this right. Booking ahead for Sunday roast isn't just recommended - it's practically mandatory unless you enjoy the special kind of torture that is smelling amazing food while waiting for a table. They take cards (including contactless), so no need to hit the cash point. And yes, they do takeaway, but trust me, you want the full experience.

The Hunter S sits in that sweet spot between "I can afford to come here regularly" and "this feels way fancier than what I'm paying." It's like they've figured out how to serve champagne moments on a prosecco budget, and we're all here for it.

Listen, I'm not saying your entire London social life should revolve around this pub, but... actually, yes, that's exactly what I'm saying. Whether you're planning date night, group dinner, Sunday recovery sessions, or "it's Tuesday and I deserve nice things" moments, The Hunter S in London is your answer. Get yourself to Dalston, grab a booth, order that Wellington, and prepare to text everyone you know: "WHY didn't you tell me about this place sooner?!" Don't say I didn't warn you.