Michelin-Starred Pub's Remarkable £15 Lunch Offer
When it comes to fine dining, few accolades carry as much prestige as a Michelin Star. This distinction promises exceptional culinary experiences, yet it often comes with a hefty price tag that can deter many diners. However, a South London establishment is challenging this notion by offering an affordable Michelin-starred meal that has captured the attention of food enthusiasts.
A Coveted Award for a Newcomer
The Kerfield Arms in Camberwell achieved the remarkable feat of earning a Michelin Star earlier this year, less than twelve months after first opening its doors. This rapid ascent in the culinary world highlights the pub's outstanding quality and innovation. Located in the heart of South London, the pub has quickly become a destination for those seeking top-tier cuisine without the typical exclusivity.
What sets The Kerfield Arms apart is its commitment to accessibility. While many Michelin-starred venues command premium prices, this pub is serving a lunch special that includes a drink for just £15. This deal is available on weekdays, making it an attractive option for locals and visitors alike who want to experience gourmet food without breaking the bank.
Food Reviewers Put the Deal to the Test
Gerry and Paul, the duo behind the popular social media food review account Bite Twice, recently visited The Kerfield Arms to sample the £15 lunch offer. With over 272,000 followers on Instagram, their verdict carries significant weight in the food community. They documented their experience in a video, sharing their impressions of the meal.
Paul introduced the visit by saying, "So this unassuming pub in the depths of South London was recently awarded a Michelin Star, and they do a £15 lunch special with a drink. We're going to see if it's any good." Gerry pondered whether this might be the cheapest Michelin-starred deal globally, to which Paul replied, "Could be."
The daily special featured grilled pork collar bacon served with Jersey royal potatoes and parsley sauce. To start, both reviewers ordered bread and butter, which Gerry described as a "litmus test for any quality establishment." He praised the bread, noting its "really, really soft and fluffy" interior and "nice crunchy exterior."
Impressions of the Main Course
When the main course arrived, Gerry sampled the pork first, exclaiming, "That is flavour in absolute abundance. It's kind of sweet, super salty, but in a good way. The glaze on it is sensational. The meat is just cooked to perfection. Really buttery and just falls apart. Beautiful." He then turned to the potatoes, remarking, "That's the creamiest parsley sauce I've ever had in my life. The potato just vanishes."
Paul delivered his verdict, describing it as a "sensational lunch" and adding, "Maybe these Michelin people know what they're talking about." He initially felt he could eat five portions but acknowledged that the meal's quality was the focus. The total bill for two people, including drinks, bread and butter, a bottle of water, and service, came to £47.81.
Ratings and Public Reaction
Gerry rated the meal 8.4 out of 10, while Paul gave it a slightly higher score of 8.7. Viewers in the comments section offered mixed opinions. One supporter wrote, "With a pint and a star on the door think that's pretty amazing tbh." Another commented, "Not the most substantial portion, bread is a good addition and it's less than £50 for two with drinks - that's amazing."
A third viewer noted, "Pub with a Michelin star is pretty impressive. The portion would be great for those who are advocating portion control in their diet. I think it was somewhat hearty for you guys because of the potatoes and bread filling you up." However, not all feedback was positive; one critic pointed out, "Looked nice but the portion looked a bit small and there was no greens." Another enthusiast chimed in, "For £15 you ate like kings. They're doing God's work down there."
The Michelin Guide's Perspective
The Michelin Guide's official review of The Kerfield Arms praises it as "a wonderful neighbourhood pub" that visitors are eager to return to. It describes the interior as "bright, warm and welcoming," maintaining a pub-like atmosphere while offering smart dining. The menu features "accessible, pared-back cooking" with high-quality ingredients that shine in generous, unpretentious dishes.
An example highlighted is the tender Salt Marsh lamb loin with romero peppers and a pastilla of slow-cooked shoulder meat. This emphasis on simplicity and quality aligns with the pub's philosophy of making Michelin-starred dining more approachable. The £15 lunch deal exemplifies this commitment, allowing a broader audience to enjoy exceptional cuisine in a relaxed setting.
In summary, The Kerfield Arms is redefining what it means to hold a Michelin Star by combining award-winning food with affordability. Its £15 lunch special offers a unique opportunity to experience gourmet dining without the usual financial barrier, making it a standout destination in London's culinary scene.
