The Camberwell Arms

Fans of Southwark’s renowned Anchor & Hope and its spin-off The Canton Arms will find many similarities at this handsome Camberwell boozer from the same stable. The ox-blood walls, bistro chairs and dishes to share (rib of South Devon beef, say, or spit-roast chicken for two or four) could have been lifted from its elder siblings, along with the accessible, reasonably priced wine list. But this is no identikit chain, so the kitchen has produced its own take on the gutsy cooking for which the group is known – adding a touch of New York deli (house-smoked pastrami and pickles), the American South (barbecue chicken wings) and even North Africa (punchy house-produced goat merguez matched with spiced aubergine, bulgur wheat and garlic yoghurt). At lunchtime, you’ll find a pared-down version of the evening menu, though there’s usually a hearty pie for two to share. A first-floor cocktail bar adds drinks appeal.

If you’re local to Camberwell, or even if you’re not, you’re likely to have heard of The Camberwell Arms. This neighbourhood pub has a bit of a reputation for its great grub and low-key, welcoming atmosphere that makes it a favourite haunt for many a South East Londoner. Set up by chef director Mike Davies in 2014, Camberwell Arms offers generous hospitality, seasonal cooking, informal but well-informed service and a natural leaning wine list. 

The pub is split over two floors, with a bright and airy private dining room upstairs and a more traditional, cosy pub and restaurant on the ground floor. It offers a main dinner menu throughout the week, as well as a weekday lunch and Sunday roast menu to rival. Main dishes are uncomplicated and focus on cooking fresh ingredients well, featuring the likes of charred sprouting broccoli, date vinegar, tahini and za’atar, deep-fried mackerel with persimmon and chilli and slip sole with saffron butter. And that’s just for starters.  

For main course, guests can opt for a classic steak (Aged Hereford rump) with anchovy and rosemary butter and chips, while roast skate with brown butter, fennel and almonds or gnudi, artichoke, trompettes de la mort and cavolo nero are also on the list. Desserts sound just as tempting and intriguing: think poached pear with malt custard and toasted rye flakes or burnt chestnut and honey cheesecake with agen prunes.  

Sunday lunch is designed to be taken family-style in which dishes are shared at the table with loved ones. Go for slow-cooked beef osso bucco, roast pork belly or half a spit-roast chicken. 

This is a pub, so the drinks list features plenty of ales and bitters, along with a wine list comprised of an extensive range of natural wines. For fun, guests can order one of its ‘Big Bottles’ which are available in up to 1.5l bottles!