A Century-Old Tradition: Greenwich Pie Shop Maintains £6.50 Price Tag
As British Pie Week unfolds, attention turns to one of London's most enduring culinary institutions. Goddards at Greenwich, a family-run pie and mash shop that first opened its doors in 1890, continues to thrive after 136 years, now operated by the sixth generation of the same family. Remarkably, their signature minced beef pie and mash plate remains priced at just £6.50.
From Dock Workers' Meal to London Comfort Food
What began as a humble "poor man's meal" for River Thames dock workers has evolved into one of London's most recognizable comfort foods. The shop has undergone changes over the decades but has diligently preserved both its original recipe and atmospheric charm. Joanne Jeffrey, who has managed the establishment for 14 years and has known it since childhood, emphasizes their commitment to tradition.
"We have a hell of a lot of regulars," Jeffrey reveals. "We just lost one of our oldest customers, sadly. His name was Mick, and he'd been coming here since 1974." She has cultivated close relationships with many patrons over the years, adhering to a simple philosophy: "When people walk through the door, they should be treated how we expect to be treated."
Historic Atmosphere and Modern Appeal
From 10am daily, customers queue at the counter of the 22 King William Walk location, which became Goddards' home in 2006. The walls adorned with vintage photographs create a tangible sense of history, transporting visitors to another era. Jeffrey attributes part of their popularity to affordability in an increasingly expensive area: "There are so many places around here that are so expensive, so I think our reasonable prices for a very filling meal are another reason why we're so popular."
Beyond Traditional Pies: An Expanded Menu
While the classic minced beef pie remains the star, Goddards offers additional acclaimed options. Their award-winning Steak and Ale pie costs £7.20, and fruit crumbles recognized among London's top desserts are available for £5.40. Each pie can be accompanied by homemade parsley sauce, traditionally called "liquor." Originally made from jellied eel stock, this sauce now features a vegetarian version while retaining its historic name.
The Secret to Longevity: Passion and Perseverance
When questioned about their culinary success, Jeffrey praises the dedicated kitchen team: "Our boys that are downstairs, they work very hard. If you've got a lot of love that goes into your food, then it shows through the flavours." Despite acknowledging that traditional pie and mash shops are "dying out," she remains resolute about Goddards' future: "We won't stop going. We will keep going forever, for as long as we can."
This Greenwich institution stands as a testament to London's culinary heritage, proving that quality, tradition, and affordability can coexist even in modern times. As British Pie Week celebrates the nation's love for this classic dish, Goddards continues to serve both history and hearty meals to generations of Londoners.
