ROAST SERIES: Apollo Arms

We knew a roast at Apollo Arms was going to be good. Having recently visited Clapham’s newest pub for the Monday curry night our expectations were high, but- oh boy- were they exceeded. So, without futher ado, here’s the first in our ROAST SERIES. Tuck in.

Ambience

Walking in it was lovely to see such a busy space. The authentic pub (chalk board with upcoming events scribbled on, cosy and dark interior decor, lit by dinky candles on every table…) had a family friendly feel too. This would be a lovely spot to bring the whole motley crew. On a sunny day their beer garden is a treat- even if it is a little chilly we’d recommend heading out there for a pre lunch drink before warming up inside.

The Food

It’s very classic here. The roast offerings are simple; there’s a chicken, beef, pork and vegetarian option. All come with roast potatoes, greens, carrots and a Yorkshire pudding. We went for the beef and veggie and a side of cauliflower cheese (because what is a roast without one?!) and they were all fantastic. The beef was a treacle cured Sirloin with horseradish cream and a carrot purée. The meat itself was melt-on-your tongue, silky and cooked perfectly. An absolute treat with a kick of spice from the horseradish cream. The pithivier was a vegetarian option we don’t often see on a roast menu, so it refreshing for the non-meat-eaters amongst us. It was a perfectly round, golden pastry filled generously with a gorgeously luxurious mushroom and celeriac filling. A proper delight.

Standouts

The potatoes are arguably the most important component of a roast. For us, the holy trinity of a good roast potato is: crisp and golden, seasoned well and fluffy in the middle. They hit all three perfectly and we’re still fantasising about them. And let’s talk gravy because this one just as it should be; rich and intense. We couldn’t help but ask for an extra serving. 

Price

At first glance this might seem a little on the pricier side, but you certainly get what you pay for in terms of quantity and quality, especially for the meat eaters.

Beef: £25, Vegetarian: £22.50, Cauliflower Cheese side: £9.

We were left totally stunned by the roast at Apollo Arms. For us they are definite contenders for the best roast in Clapham, so what a way to kick start our roast series. Keep your eyes peeled for the next one.

THE ROAST SERIES: We are on a journey to discover some of the very best Sunday roasts in Clapham. Each will have remarks 4 categories: Ambience, The Food, Price and Standouts to make it clear what it is we loved about each one. We will aim to order similarly in every place we try to give you the clearest indication of how it compares to the rest of the neighbourhood.  Stay tuned to find your favourite.