The Fox & Pheasant

Visiting the Fox and Pheasant, James Blunt’s celebrity pub near Stamford Bridge, was a delightful experience. As I approached, I couldn’t help but notice how beautiful the pub looked, adorned with hanging baskets filled with vibrant flowers. The atmosphere felt inviting, and I was eager to see if it would live up to the hype surrounding celebrity-owned establishments.

Upon entering, the pub’s interior impressed me with its stylish decor and cosy ambience. While I missed some background music in the dining area, the buzz from the bar and the presence of a dartboard added a lively touch to the surroundings. To kick off my meal, I was pleasantly surprised by complimentary hummus served with crunchy carrots and cucumber—a nice touch that set the tone for what was to come.

The menu was concise, featuring a selection of five starters and a few mains, making it easy to choose. The standout item for me was the Camembert croquette, priced at £12. It arrived beautifully presented, showcasing a simple yet effective combination of flavours and textures. The black garlic ketchup paired perfectly with the richness of the croquette, leaving me eager for more.

For my main course, I couldn’t resist trying the smoked ham hock and cheese pie, which came in at £26.00. The pie had a golden, flaky pastry that encased a generous portion of succulent ham hock and cheese, creating a mouthwatering blend of rich flavours. Accompanying the dish were fresh vegetables, including peas and cabbage, that added a lovely crunch and didn’t require any additional seasoning. The mashed potatoes and red wine jus elevated the experience, and I felt truly satisfied with my choice.

To finish my meal, I opted for vanilla rice pudding, recalling fond memories from my school days. At £10.00, it was a comforting conclusion to the meal. The presentation was simple yet appealing, and the creamy texture, infused with a strong vanilla flavour, brought back nostalgic feelings. The sugar on top added a delightful crunch, though I found it a bit heavy. Despite that, I enjoyed it but would probably opt for a different dessert next time.

Reflecting on my overall experience at the Fox and Pheasant, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction. The total bill came to £48.00, which I considered reasonable given the location and quality of the food. Yes, the prices were on the higher side, but the experience was worth every penny. For that reason, I happily award the pub a rating of 9 out of 10. I left with a warm heart and a desire to return, eager to relive the wonderful flavours and enjoyable atmosphere.