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The Porterhouse

4.4
·7k reviews·, United Kingdom

A sprawling, multi-level pub in Covent Garden with industrial charm, gleaming copper pipes, and an epic beer selection.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Live music & buzzing atmosphere

CrowdHigh
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The Porterhouse - Image 1

The Porterhouse

Best Time

Evenings

Live music & buzzing atmosphere

CrowdHigh

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sprawling, multi-level pub in Covent Garden with industrial charm, gleaming copper pipes, and an epic beer selection.

4.4
(7k reviews)

"A truly unique and atmospheric pub! It’s deceptively large, with loads of nooks and crannies to explore."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Explore All Levels

This pub is HUGE! Wander through all three floors to find your perfect spot.

🍺 Ask for Beer Recs

Staff are knowledgeable about the vast beer selection. Get a personalized recommendation!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Copper Pipe Spectacle

The Copper Pipe Spectacle

Throughout the pub

Gleaming copper pipes snake across the walls and ceilings, creating a unique industrial-chic atmosphere. It's a visual feast!

The Basement Music Club

The Basement Music Club

Basement level

Experience late-night vibes with live music that adds an electric energy to this massive pub. A true Covent Garden gem.

Extensive Beer Selection

Extensive Beer Selection

Bar areas

From imported draughts to craft brews, find a pint for every palate. Expert staff can guide your selection.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Scale

Don't be fooled by its facade; The Porterhouse is a sprawling, multi-level pub with hidden nooks and crannies. Explore all three floors to find your perfect spot, whether for a quiet pint or a lively night out. Live music often fills the basement club, so check schedules!

Beer Lover's Paradise

With an extensive selection of imported draughts and craft beers, The Porterhouse is a haven for beer enthusiasts. Don't hesitate to ask staff for recommendations; they're knowledgeable and can help you discover your new favorite brew. Reddit

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Live music & buzzing atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
More relaxed exploration
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

any omissions were very intentional 🥩✨ #steaktok #nycsteakhouse #porterhouse #nycrecs #nycrestaurants #nycfoodgurl #steakhouse
@sheneedsasnack
2.5K likes • 159.7K views

🎯 Explore All Levels

This pub is HUGE! Wander through all three floors to find your perfect spot. TikTokReddit

🍺 Ask for Beer Recs

Staff are knowledgeable about the vast beer selection. Get a personalized recommendation! Reddit

Trying the most famous steakhouse in the world! 📍 Peter Lugars, Brooklyn Hat from @yeschef.supply #steak #nyc #steakhouse #porterhouse #nycsteakhouse
@jacksdiningroom
640.9K likes • 8.6M views
the porterhouse was delish🥩 as a steak lover i’m surprised i didnt know about this. Each and every Monday all of the Big Chops are £7 per 100g rather than £10! A fantastic offer for steak lovers like myself👏🏾 I highly recommend booking beforehand as it gets really busy! #blacklock #blacklockchops #steak #porterhouse #primerib #steakhouse #londonfoodie #londonfoodspots #londonrestaurants
@where2eatlondon
3.4K likes • 90.6K views

🎶 Check Music Schedule

The basement club often has live music. See what's on for a lively night! Reddit

🍔 Don't Skip the Food

Beyond drinks, enjoy classic pub fare like burgers and fish & chips. Reddit

Meet the Porterhouse: the steak that has it all. Filet on one side, New York Strip on the other, with a T-bone down the middle. Order it medium rate and thank us later. #PorterhouseSteak #SteakTok #BestSteakNYC #NYCFoodie #nycrestaurants
@goldensteernyc
366 likes • 9.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Explore All Levels

This pub is HUGE! Wander through all three floors to find your perfect spot. TikTokReddit

🍺 Ask for Beer Recs

Staff are knowledgeable about the vast beer selection. Get a personalized recommendation! Reddit

🎶 Check Music Schedule

The basement club often has live music. See what's on for a lively night! Reddit

🍔 Don't Skip the Food

Beyond drinks, enjoy classic pub fare like burgers and fish & chips. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise The Porterhouse for its unique, multi-level atmosphere, extensive beer selection, and lively vibe, especially with live music. While it's a popular spot that can get crowded, many find the food, particularly the burgers, to be a delightful addition to the overall experience. It's seen as a character-filled pub that stands out from typical tourist traps.

"A Hidden Gem Full of Character!

We had a fantastic time at The Porterhouse – a truly unique and atmospheric pub! It’s deceptively large, with loads of nooks and crannies to explore, spread over three levels (basement, ground floor, and upper level). The industrial charm is everywhere, with exposed copper pipes adding to the quirky and distinctive vibe.

There’s a great mix of seating areas, perfect for small groups or a more intimate drink, and both the indoor and outdoor spaces are well thought out. The selection of beers is excellent, with something for every taste, and the live music added a brilliant energy to the evening.

If you’re in the area and looking for a lively, character-filled spot to enjoy a pint, I’d highly recommend The Porterhouse. A real find!"

Duncan Andrews

"Best pub in London ever!
Due to good reviews, I decided to have lunch at The Porterhouse in Covent Garden, my favourite district in London.
Pub is huge and there is live music in evenings.
They have a wide selection of beer, included craft beer; I described my favourite beer and waiter suggested a beer I really appreciated.
I had fish and chips for lunch: good taste and sauces were fantastic (the yellow one, in particular).
Most important thing: it's not the usual pub for tourists.
I recommend this pub and I look forward to visiting The Porterhouse again."

Katia Rossano

"Good Pub that is much bigger inside than it appears from the outside. Lots of spaces on different levels to find, from bigger tables for groups until small niches for a couple. Depending on the number of guests, not all areas are accessible. Really nice, but You have to be lucky to catch a free seat: outside area, which is lovely during summer and the big umbrellas should also keep away the worst on a rainy day. Good choice of beers, mostly regional, nice menu with burgers & co.
Take the time to walk around on the right side to have a view at the amazing windows"

Michael Lederer

What People Like

Unique industrial atmosphere
Vast beer selection
Lively music nights

What People Dislike

Can get very crowded
Finding a seat can be tough

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Porterhouse is conveniently located in Covent Garden, a central London hub. The nearest Tube stations are Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line) and Leicester Square (Piccadilly and Northern Lines). Numerous bus routes also serve the area. TikTok

Yes, it's very accessible. Covent Garden and Leicester Square stations are a short walk away, making it easy to reach via the London Underground. TikTok

From Heathrow, take the Piccadilly Line directly to Covent Garden station. This is the most straightforward and cost-effective option. TikTok

Parking in Covent Garden can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport rather than driving. TikTok

Absolutely! It's within walking distance of many popular spots like Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery, and the West End theatres. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, The Porterhouse is a pub and generally does not require tickets for entry. You pay for your food and drinks. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but it's typically open from late morning until late at night, especially on weekends. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date times. Reddit

While entry to the pub is free, the basement music club may have a cover charge on nights with live performances. This is common for venues with live entertainment. Reddit

For general pub visits, booking isn't always necessary, but it can get very busy, especially in the evenings and on weekends. For larger groups or if you want to guarantee a spot, it's advisable to contact them directly about reservations. Reddit

As a licensed establishment, standard UK laws apply regarding age restrictions for purchasing alcohol. You may be asked for ID. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Porterhouse offers a classic pub menu with hearty options like burgers, fish and chips, and other British pub favorites. TikTokReddit

While the menu leans towards traditional pub fare, most pubs now offer vegetarian options. It's best to check their current menu for specific vegan or vegetarian dishes. Reddit

Reviews suggest the food is good quality and reasonably priced for its Covent Garden location, offering good value for a satisfying meal. Reddit

While the pub is named after the cut, its primary focus is on a wide beer selection and pub fare. They do offer steaks, but it's not a dedicated steakhouse. TikTok+1

Many visitors rave about their classic burgers, and the fish and chips are also frequently recommended. Reddit

🎫 🍺 Drinks & Beer

The Porterhouse boasts an extensive selection of imported draught beers and craft beers, catering to a wide range of tastes. TikTokReddit

Yes, they often feature a selection of local and regional craft beers alongside their international offerings. Reddit

While not always standard, it's worth asking the bartender if they can offer a small sample, especially if you're trying a new or unfamiliar beer. Reddit

Yes, they offer a full range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including wines, spirits, soft drinks, and often cocktails. TikTok

As a brewery showcase, they often feature beers from the Porterhouse Brewery itself, alongside a curated selection from other breweries. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Vibe

The atmosphere is lively and energetic, especially in the evenings with live music. It's known for its industrial charm and unique decor. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! The distinctive copper pipes, multi-level layout, and vibrant atmosphere make it a very photogenic spot. TikTok

Its most striking feature is the extensive network of gleaming copper pipes that run throughout the pub, creating a memorable industrial aesthetic. Reddit

With its varied seating areas, from intimate nooks to lively spots, and the option of live music, it can be a great choice for a date night. Reddit

Early afternoons might offer better lighting for capturing the interior details without the peak evening crowds. Evenings offer a more atmospheric, albeit darker, vibe. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

🍻 Beer Enthusiasts

If you're passionate about beer, The Porterhouse is your mecca. With an extensive list of imported draughts and craft beers, you're sure to find something new and exciting. Don't hesitate to ask the staff for their expert recommendations; they're well-versed in the brewery's offerings and can help you discover your next favorite pint. TikTokReddit

🎶 Music Lovers

For those who enjoy live music, the basement club at The Porterhouse is a must-visit. It often hosts bands and performers, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere that's perfect for a night out. Check their schedule in advance to see who's playing during your visit. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explorers & Sightseers

Located in the heart of Covent Garden, The Porterhouse is an ideal stop while exploring London. Its unique multi-level layout and distinctive decor offer a visually engaging experience. Take your time to wander through its different sections and appreciate the industrial charm. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Porterhouse: A Covent Garden Institution

The Porterhouse, nestled in the heart of London's vibrant Covent Garden, is far more than just a pub; it's an experience. Established as the London showcase for the family-owned Porterhouse Brewery, this establishment has carved out a unique identity. Its location on Maiden Lane is steeped in history, notably being the birthplace of the famous painter J.M.W. Turner in 1775. This historical resonance, combined with its distinctive industrial design, makes it a landmark destination for locals and tourists alike. Reddit

The pub's most visually arresting feature is its intricate network of gleaming copper pipes that adorn the walls and ceilings, creating an unforgettable industrial-chic ambiance. This distinctive decor, spread across three expansive levels, offers a variety of seating areas, from cozy nooks perfect for intimate conversations to larger spaces ideal for groups. The sheer scale of the venue is often surprising to first-time visitors, providing ample room to explore and find a comfortable spot. Reddit

Beyond its striking aesthetics, The Porterhouse is renowned for its exceptional beer selection. It proudly serves a wide array of imported draught beers and a curated list of craft brews, ensuring that every beer aficionado finds something to savor. The knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer recommendations, guiding patrons through the diverse offerings. Complementing the drinks is a robust menu of classic pub fare, including highly-praised burgers and traditional fish and chips, making it a complete destination for a memorable outing. TikTokReddit

Exploring The Porterhouse's Multi-Level Experience

One of the most talked-about aspects of The Porterhouse is its impressive multi-level layout. Spanning three distinct floors—the basement, ground floor, and an upper level—the pub offers a unique environment on each. The ground floor and upper levels provide ample seating, from communal tables for larger gatherings to smaller, more intimate spots tucked away. These areas are perfect for enjoying a pint and a meal while soaking in the lively pub atmosphere. TikTokReddit

The basement level is where the energy truly ignies, especially in the evenings. This area often transforms into a music club, featuring live performances that create a vibrant and buzzing atmosphere. It's the ideal spot for those looking for a more energetic night out, complete with music and a crowd ready to enjoy it. TikTokReddit

Navigating these levels is part of the adventure. Depending on the day and time, not all areas may be fully accessible, but the sheer variety ensures there's always a new corner to discover. Whether you're seeking a quiet corner for a conversation or a lively spot to enjoy live music, The Porterhouse's tiered design caters to a wide range of preferences. Reddit

The Art of the Porterhouse Steak

While The Porterhouse pub is celebrated for its beer and atmosphere, the 'Porterhouse' cut of steak itself is a culinary marvel. This impressive cut is essentially two steaks in one, featuring a New York strip on one side of the T-bone and a tenderloin (filet mignon) on the other. It's a prime choice for steak lovers who appreciate variety and quality. TikTok+1

Cooking a Porterhouse steak to perfection, especially to a medium-rare, requires attention to detail. A common tip from home cooks is to use a screaming hot cast-iron pan to achieve a beautiful sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Reddit The thickness of the steak means it benefits from careful temperature monitoring to avoid overcooking the more delicate filet mignon while ensuring the strip is cooked to preference. TikTok+1

When dining out, a 'Porterhouse for Two' is a popular offering at many steakhouses, highlighting the generous size of the cut. TikTok Whether enjoyed at a dedicated steakhouse or as part of a broader menu, the Porterhouse steak remains a symbol of a hearty, satisfying meal, often associated with celebrations and special occasions. TikTok+1