A well-established staple of the Pimlico area, The Marquis of Westminster serves up a sumptuous menu of refined pub classics, fine ales, wines and gins. Equidistant from both Pimlico and Victoria stations, and just a short walk from the river, this pub is easy to reach from anywhere in the capital. Dark walls, plush leather benches and varnished wood make diners feel right at home, with large windows flooding the space with light throughout the day.
The Marquis has created a diverse list of signature house cocktails, including the maple pecan old fashioned, jalapeno margarita and blood orange spritz. These sit alongside a global wine list with most options available by the glass or bottle. Draft options here include all the classics, and spirits are on hand for purists. Gin-lovers should opt for the house infused gin and tonic, or house flute (gin and prosecco).
Food is not an afterthought, rather it takes centre stage. Toasted sourdough and Bovril butter might start off the proceedings, or a tonkatsu Scotch egg with curry sauce. More delicate starters include a Devon crab and crayfish cocktail or white bean and watercress hummus with pomegranate and sumac.
After this, there is a wide selection of traditional pub mains but with a modern twist. Cider battered cod loin, for example, comes with chunky chips and samphire tartare, while the beef, Merlot and wild mushroom pie is paired with decadent clotted cream mash. Vegetarians can opt for the hearty 5-bean Valrhona chocolate chilli with coconut rice, pickled walnut and toasted corn tortillas. Finish with the likes of a rhubarb and custard knickerbocker glory, or choose a dessert cocktail for a lighter end to the meal.
The Sunday roast here is famous, with options including pork belly, beef sirloin and chicken supreme. Each comes with duck fat roast potatoes, honey roasted carrots, broccoli, hispi cabbage, red wine gravy and a Yorkshire pudding.