Two London pubs have been named among the best in the region as part of the National Pub & Bar Awards 2023.

The Oyster Shed in the City of London and The Barley Mow in Mayfair were named as the two best in the whole of London. 

A total of 94 venues have been recognised in the annual event as the best in their respective counties.

The awards aim to highlight the positive and inspiring work being carried out across the UK’s hospitality industry.

Two London pubs ranked among the best in the capital 

On its website, The Oyster Shed describes itself as "one of the City’s finest watering holes and an award-winning pub."

it added that it also offers an "abundance of bookable spaces, dog-friendly garden and panoramic sun-drenched views across the river Thames"  as well as being the home to "the freshest food, finest wines, quality cask ales and a selection of cracking beers."

On Tripadvisor, it has a rating of 3.5/5 and one reviewer shared: "The service was excellent and the food and wine was very good."

Meanwhile, The Barley Mow in Mayfair is described as a "landmark Mayfair pub lovingly restored  with a handsome bar and an elegant Dining Room."

Their pub menu includes Seasonal Oysters, Haggis Scotch Egg, Whisky Mayonnaise and Truffled Croque Monsieur with House Pickle.

On Tripadvisor, The Barley Mow has a 4.5 rating with one user sharing it has "Brilliant honest food and fast service." 

How do the awards work?

Entries for the awards have been open since the start of the year, with hundreds of venues outlining the details of their operation, summarising the work that goes into the design, training, team welfare, sustainability, food, drink, marketing and many other areas. 

At the award ceremony in June, official regional winners will be crowned as well as overall winners.

Tristan O’Hana, the editor of Pub & Bar magazine, which runs the awards, said: “We were overwhelmed by the level and quality of entries this year.

“It just goes to show what magnificent work is going on across the UK hospitality sector. With outrageous energy costs, recruitment shortages and a punishing taxation system, these businesses are once again facing tough times.

"Now, more than ever, it’s vital that people support their local pubs and bars. So, ahead of the long Easter weekend, why not check out the finest in your county?”