London boasts thousands of pubs, from chic gastropubs to local chain establishments, but only two have ever achieved the prestigious Michelin Star. Until recently, The Harwood Arms held the sole distinction, but with the latest awards announced last week, The Kerfield Arms in Camberwell has joined this elite rank, sparking a surge of interest from eager Londoners.
A Culinary Landmark Emerges
The Kerfield Arms proudly announced on social media its Michelin Star recognition, immediately drawing attention from food enthusiasts across the capital. In comments online, people expressed excitement, with some vowing to "get their skates on" to visit, and others prepared to "cross the river" for a taste. This enthusiasm aligns with the Michelin Guide's description, which calls it "a wonderful neighbourhood pub – the kind of place you visit once, then immediately start planning your return."
What Makes It Exceptional?
Online reviews consistently highlight the pub's "exceptional" roast dinner, with many hailing it as "the best" in London. The menu features options like Grilled Highland Rump, Vendée Chicken, Pork Collar, and Highland sirloin for two. Each dish is meticulously prepared: beef comes with Yorkshire pudding and horseradish, pork with sand carrots and apple sauce, and chicken with cavolo nero and bread sauce. All roasts include roast potatoes, hispi cabbage, and gravy, with prices ranging from £25 to £28 for individual mains and £78 for the sirloin.
Tom Flanagan noted on Google, "One of the best roasts I’ve had in London, the bread sauce with the chicken was exceptional. Bustling foodie pub and service/atmosphere was on point." Similarly, Adam Pollock shared, "Really good restaurant this and a good local pub too. Have eaten there for the second time now, and it gets better! The roast chicken was genuinely one of the best I can remember."
Desserts That Delight
Beyond the roasts, desserts have also won over customers, particularly a £9 doughnut available in flavours like Strawberry & Chamomile and Rhubarb & Custard. Nick Brown claimed, "The doughnut is a thing of beauty," while Adam Pollock rated it an "11/10." On Instagram, users describe it as "delicious" and admit they "think of it daily."
History and Accolades
Located at 16 Grove Lane in Camberwell within a Victorian building, The Kerfield Arms has a rich history, with a pub on the site for nearly 130 years. It was previously known as The Crooked Well until April 2025, when it underwent refurbishment and reopened under its current name. Run by Adam Symonds and Rob Tecwyn, with chef Jay Styler leading the kitchen, the pub has quickly garnered acclaim. In addition to the Michelin Star, it was recently named one of the top 50 gastropubs in the UK, ranking at number 25. The team also operates a "younger brother" pub, The Baring in Islington.
As Londoners continue to flock to The Kerfield Arms, it solidifies its reputation as a must-visit destination for food lovers, blending historic charm with culinary excellence.
