When was the last time you had your eel and pie fix? It may take you a while to process the question. Spoiled for choice with every cuisine imaginable, Londoners rarely think about this East End staple, which I dare say is becoming an endangered species — with traditional shops closing down, one could argue that this era is fading. But not to be too dramatic, I'm excited to shine a light on some of the best time-honored spots — long may they thrive — that still serve this comforting, authentic food, eel jelly included.
Noted Eel & Pie House carries the warmth of a family heirloom, with its pie and mash now crafted by the fourth generation. The shop is nearing its 100th anniversary, and the location in Leytonstone has remained unchanged since the 1970s. The recipes are likely just as steadfast — though they’ve flirted with vegan twists. Otherwise, it’s all about preserving things wonderfully simple.
However, I wish they could take a step into the present by accepting card payments. But for now, bring cash, grab a seat on a red bench, and let the black-and-white photos transport you, imagining how people enjoyed their treats here decades ago. Pies, freshly made every day, did not disappoint — even if I’d prefer a bit more flakiness in the crust, the Scotch beef filling is incredibly flavorful and comforting. Jellied eel is good too, and the owners maintain the tradition by keeping the fish alive and cutting it onsite.
Pie, mash, and liquor — from £5
Opened in 1902, M.Manze is London's oldest remaining pie and mash shop. This spot is as much a place to dine as it is a time machine. Its interior is decidedly old-school, but not in an unassuming way — instead, it's elegant and full of character. Think late Victorian-style pub: glossy white and green tiles with occasional floral patterns, complemewith well-worn dark wood benches and narrow marble tables.
The food comes authentic and traditional, just as it should, with a touch of superior creaminess in mashed potatoes. Drizzle your loaded plate with chili vinegar — it perfectly elevates the whole dish. They also offer stewed eel alongside the jellied one, which I was glad to try, as I’m not the biggest fan of the latter. I’m sure some nostalgic types or traditionalists will be pleased to find sarsaparilla here, a relative of old-fashioned root beer.
Pie & liquor — £4.90
Robert Cooke is credited with popularizing pie and mash as we love it today in the 1860s, founding a chain of eateries across the city. His legacy lives on in Hoxton, where you can still savor the original and legendary taste. And here’s a plot twist — the M. Manze shop mentioned above was actually purchased from Cooke in 1902 by his son-in-law. So, technically, London’s oldest joint traces back to Cooke himself.
Now, let’s get back to the easily recognizable dark green façade on Hoxton Street. This is where the liquor tastes especially delicious to me. It has a more intense, grassy flavor and lighter texture than what you typically find in other shops — hitting what I consider the perfect balance. I was completely taken by the thin pastry crust, savoring each bite while gazing out the large window. And to top it off, I had the most delightful, mood-boosting chat with the owner — someone who clearly cherishes this place.
Pie & mash — £5
I’d go back to G Kelly just for their wonderfully heartwarming apple crumble, which somehow took me back to carefree childhood weekends. Don’t think about leaving without sampling it, paired with a scoop of ice cream, silky custard, or both — why not? But yes, first and foremost, G Kelly is a pie and mash shop, and I can confirm — this staple is made with care and tradition that will satisfy both experts and curious newcomers alike.
Their pies are a highlight: crisp, freshly baked, and generously stuffed with rich, high-quality beef. A vegan version is also on the menu. Jellied eel is best brought to life with a splash of house-made chili vinegar, and you may want to snag a bottle home. I love the retro all-white interior with its clean, almost clinical feel — in the best possible way. Yes, it’s got that nostalgic charm, but everything is well-kept and modernized where it counts.
Beef pie — £2.60
I could add a few other shops with nearly a century of history and legendary status to the list, but honestly, this tiny spot in the East End truly deserves recognition for its exceptional take on what is called “small but mighty.” BJ’s is a bit of a hidden gem with limited seating — only a couple of communal tables. But you don’t care about the size when the plate arrives.
I'm not sure what secret ingredient they use, because everything seems pretty standard, but the flavors are richer than at many other places. Maybe it's the perfectly seasoned liquor, the slightly charred pie tops, or that otherworldly gravy. Importantly, they offer chips as an alternative to mash — some might turn their noses up at this twist, but I was genuinely glad I opted for the change. With such authentic food served by the friendliest people, I left feeling full and content, like I’d just enjoyed a meal at an old friend’s house.
Pie — £3.20
