The Red Setter

The Red Setter in London isn't just another pub – it's the kind of place where you walk in as a stranger and leave feeling like you've just discovered your new favorite local. Tucked away in its corner of the city, this gem has mastered the delicate art of being both a proper London boozer and something entirely its own, with a whopping 4.7-star rating that speaks volumes about what's happening behind those welcoming doors.

Let's talk about what everyone's raving about – their Sunday roast. Now, I've had my fair share of roasts across London (possibly too many, if my waistline has any say in the matter), but The Red Setter has turned this British tradition into something of a religious experience. When locals start comparing it to their mum's cooking – and favorably at that – you know you're onto something special. The crispy roast potatoes alone are worth writing home about, achieving that mythical balance of crunchy exterior and fluffy inside that so many pubs promise but so few deliver.

The space itself strikes that perfect balance between cozy and spacious, managing to feel intimate even when it's buzzing with Sunday lunch crowds. The interior has that lived-in charm that can't be manufactured – warm wooden floors that have seen thousands of happy feet, comfortable seats that invite you to settle in for the afternoon, and lighting that somehow makes everyone look like they're starring in their own indie film. And yes, your four-legged friends are more than welcome to join the party – The Red Setter is proudly dog-friendly, often featuring a parade of pampered pooches alongside their human companions.

What really sets this place apart from the sea of London pubs is the staff. They've somehow managed to hire people who seem genuinely happy to be there (a miracle in itself) and who strike that perfect balance between attentive and overbearing. Whether it's Harriet cracking jokes while taking your order, James recommending the perfect wine pairing, or Dan (who some customers affectionately call "Dad") making sure your Sunday roast experience is nothing short of perfection, the service here adds an extra layer of warmth to every visit.

Speaking of drinks, The Red Setter doesn't just rest on its roast dinner laurels. The bar offering is thoughtfully curated, with everything from local craft beers to carefully selected wines and cocktails that don't break the bank. The prices sit comfortably in the reasonable range for London – not cheap enough to make you suspicious, but not so expensive that you'll need to remortgage your house for a round of drinks.

For those who prefer their socializing al fresco, the outdoor seating area is a genuine treat. It's one of those rare London spaces where you can actually hear yourself think while enjoying your pint, making it perfect for everything from casual catch-ups to impromptu afternoon sessions that somehow turn into evening adventures.

The atmosphere shifts seamlessly from lazy Sunday afternoons to livelier evening sessions, but never loses that essential warmth that makes it special. During the week, you'll find a mix of locals and curious visitors, all drawn in by the genuine hospitality and consistently good offerings. The pub manages that rare feat of being both a proper local and a destination venue, without feeling like it's trying too hard to be either.

Here's an insider tip: while the Sunday roast gets all the glory (and rightfully so), don't sleep on their other offerings. The French toast has developed something of a cult following among brunch enthusiasts, and the regular menu holds its own against some of London's more pretentious gastropubs. And if you're planning on visiting for Sunday lunch, booking ahead isn't just recommended – it's practically mandatory unless you enjoy the distinctive British pastime of queuing.

If you're seeking that quintessential London pub experience but want something a notch above the usual, The Red Setter in London is your answer. Whether you're a local looking for your new regular or a visitor wanting to experience a proper London pub without the tourist traps, you'll find your home here. Pop in for a pint, stay for the roast, and don't be surprised if you end up making it your regular spot – just save me a seat at the bar, will you?