Dining at The Jugged Hare Victoria: What to Expect (Menu, Prices & 4 Best Dishes)
A gastropub experience that blends British tradition with modern charm
When you think of quintessential British dining, a proper pub meal comes to mind — rustic wooden interiors, roaring fireplaces, and hearty dishes that feel like a hug on a plate. That’s exactly what The Jugged Hare Victoria promises, but with a refined twist. If you’re planning a meal here — or simply curious if it’s worth the detour — this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
From the atmosphere and seasonal menus to drink offerings and standout dishes, here’s what to expect when dining at The Jugged Hare Victoria.
🍻 The Atmosphere: A Classic Pub With a Touch of Sophistication
Step inside The Jugged Hare and you’re met with an aesthetic that effortlessly marries old-world British charm with modern elegance. Think polished wood panelling, exposed brick, antique-style mirrors, and subtle lighting. It’s not just a watering hole — it’s an experience.
Located near Victoria Station, this spot attracts a blend of after-work crowds, tourists seeking authenticity, and London locals craving proper pub fare. Whether you’re grabbing a quick pint at the bar or settling in for a three-course meal, the layout allows for both casual and more elevated dining.
Expect a relaxed yet lively vibe, especially on Fridays when the after-office energy kicks in. If you’re after a quieter visit, weekday afternoons or early weekends are your best bet.
🧾 The Menu: British Heritage Meets Seasonal Produce
The Jugged Hare is known for its commitment to traditional British cuisine, but that doesn’t mean it’s stuck in the past. Their menu celebrates seasonal produce and local ingredients, offering comforting classics with a refined edge.
⭐ Starters
- Potted duck with sourdough toast
- Scottish smoked salmon
- Crispy pig cheek with apple chutney
- Wild mushroom soup (seasonal)
These openers are simple yet elevated — designed to warm up the palate without overwhelming. The potted duck is rich and indulgent, especially paired with a sharp chutney or pickled veg.
🍽️ Mains
- The namesake Jugged Hare stew — a nod to the classic 18th-century recipe, though often modernised without the traditional blood-based sauce
- Roast rump of lamb with mash and mint gravy
- Line-caught cod with buttered leeks and crushed new potatoes
- 28-day aged sirloin steak with triple-cooked chips
Vegetarian options rotate seasonally, but often include roasted squash risotto, cauliflower steak, or stuffed mushrooms with pearl barley.
🥧 Puddings: Worth Saving Room For
A true British pub meal doesn’t end without a pudding. At The Jugged Hare, the desserts strike the right balance between nostalgia and decadence.
- Sticky toffee pudding with clotted cream
- Treacle tart with lemon crème fraîche
- Seasonal crumble (apple, rhubarb or plum)
- British cheese board with oatcakes and chutney
The sticky toffee pudding is a standout — served warm, moist, and generously drenched in sauce. Pair it with a dessert wine or port for the ultimate treat.
🍷 The Drinks: From Cask Ales to Curated Wines
True to its pub roots, The Jugged Hare offers a strong line-up of British ales, including rotating cask selections from regional breweries. For lager drinkers, there’s usually a crisp continental option, often a Peroni or Camden Hells on draught.
Wine lovers aren’t left out. The list includes classic Old World reds perfect for pairing with game, stews, or rich meats, as well as fresh whites ideal for lighter fare like fish or chicken.
If you’re feeling fancy, the cocktail list has grown in recent years — think gin-forward spritzes, whisky-based sours, and a few seasonal surprises.
💷 Prices: Reasonable for the Area and Quality
Victoria isn’t known for being budget-friendly, but The Jugged Hare strikes a fair balance between quality and value.
- Starters: £7–£10
- Mains: £16–£28 (steak being on the higher end)
- Puddings: £6–£8
- Wines by the glass: £6–£9
- Pints: £5.50–£7
Considering the location, portion sizes, and attention to detail, the prices feel justified without being excessive. The service is professional and attentive, which adds to the overall value.
🕰️ Opening Hours and Booking Tips
The pub is usually open Monday to Saturday, with slightly reduced hours on Sundays. It’s busiest between 6–8pm on weekdays, so it’s wise to book ahead, especially if you’re dining with a group or visiting during peak tourist months.
They offer set menus, Sunday roasts, and even seasonal tasting events from time to time — check their website or socials for updates.
👀 Is It the Same as the Barbican Jugged Hare?
A common point of confusion: there is also a well-known restaurant called The Jugged Hare near Barbican. While the names are the same and the styles similar, they’re operated separately. This Victoria location has its own unique identity, menu, and local clientele.
If you’re visiting London and end up at the wrong one, don’t worry — both are worth trying, but The Jugged Hare Victoria is especially ideal if you’re staying in Westminster, Belgravia, or Pimlico.
🍽️ Best Dishes to Try
If it’s your first time, we’d recommend this foolproof line-up:
- Starter: Potted duck or wild mushroom soup
- Main: Jugged hare stew or sirloin steak
- Side: Buttered greens or triple-cooked chips
- Dessert: Sticky toffee pudding
Pair it with a dark ale or a bold red wine like a Rioja or Côtes du Rhône. The staff are knowledgeable and happy to suggest pairings.
🤔 Final Thoughts: Worth a Visit?
In a city full of themed pubs and over-priced tourist traps, The Jugged Hare Victoria delivers genuine British hospitality. The food is comforting but thoughtful, the drinks list caters to all, and the location couldn’t be more convenient for travellers, professionals or weekend wanderers.
It’s not just a meal — it’s a taste of London, plate by plate. Perfect for lovers of hearty, comforting dishes — like the ones featured in our comfort food recipe collection.
And if you’re curious about the history of “jugged hare” as a dish, you’ll find fascinating insights into the origins of this rich, wine-braised game stew — a meal once reserved for nobility that’s now enjoyed by all.
