Part of our Best Pubs in London microsite. Is your local listed?
The Jolly Butchers made an immediate impact on Stoke Newington when it reopened at the end of the Noughties. Just around the corner from Church Street, this knowingly back-to-basics ‘ale and cider house’ is a welcome addition to a vicinity which at times seems in danger of becoming engulfed under a wave of organic baby food and kooky home furnishings.

The array of beers on offer reflects the eclectic and independent residents of N16. Ranging from microbrewery ales, through real ciders and perrys, to German weissbeers, Belgian kriek and quality lagers, it should provide something to slake the thirst of even the most demanding drinkers. A good range of wines and spirits are also displayed behind the bar.

The back corner of the pub is home to the Booma Kitchen, serving Indian food at reasonable prices. The pub even supplies pairing notes, so you can couple your curry with the right beer.
In keeping with the theme of doing things simply but well, the decor here is minimal and lets the building’s natural space and light speak for itself. The ultra-critical may carp about the lack of comfy seating or secluded corners – but the open setup adds to the friendly and convivial atmosphere.


Images below are from 2013 and might not reflect the current look of the pub. We leave them in for the sake of posterity.