The Compton Arms has long been known for nurturing some of London’s most promising chef talent. Past residents include Four Legs, which opened The Plimsoll and Torrington’s, and Tierra, a rustic Italian kitchen that will close in December.
The Compton Arms is thrilled to announce that Lake will be taking over the kitchen as a long-term resident from January 9th. After a brief stint at Compton’s sister pub, The Gun, in Hackney, Lake will move into the much-anticipated kitchen in 2025.
Rake is run by three chefs with a combined 30 years of experience in the industry. This concept is a creative culmination of experience from establishments such as Quo Vadis, BRAT, and Acme Fire Cult. Jay Close, Cyrus Pickhaver and Peter Ward have trained and worked under some of Britain’s most famous chefs, including Jeremy Lee, Marianna Leivaditaki and Ben Tunnicliffe.
The trio goes back to the basics of training and the food they love. Rake pays homage to British cuisine, serving uplifting food with little pretense. Among our produce, we focus on whole game slaughter and sustainable Cornish fish.
The regularly changing menu reflects Rake’s core values. Achieving quality and seasonality of produce with minimal effort and skill. Expect classic and long-forgotten British recipes, such as crispy beer-flavored cockles and clams, to be revived and given a modern twist. Oysters are served grilled rarebit style or as Oyster Kilpatrick with lardo, spiced tomatoes, horseradish and Worcestershire sauce. Spiced with tangy Cumberland spices, Lardo is so simple and otherworldly. Rake revolutionizes the classic beef and ale pie. Instead of meat, it is served with stewed squid and topped with whipped potatoes. Carefully steamed crab claws are served with raver bread and bacon béarnaise for dipping. Salsify with warm Scotch soup is a seasonal dish. The hearty Beef Ribeye with homemade onion rings serves two and is never enjoyed without Rake’s legendary chips.
Arsenal fans flock to the Compton Arms store in Highbury on match days. On game days throughout the year, Lake offers hot dog arrangements. Cumberland sausage sandwiched between potato rolls and served with French dip gravy and English mustard.
The Lake has become known for its Sunday roasts, which will continue at the Compton Arms. Stargazy pie with roast meat and vegetables is served with classic sides. Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, leek gratin and collard greens.
Desserts are traditional British. Choose from a treacle tart with clotted cream, a Saint-Émilion (chocolate) tart, or a variety of cheeses. Deep-fried summer berry pie is a family-friendly dish made with blackberries from Cyrus’ mother’s garden.
The Compton Arms happened to be George Orwell’s favorite pub. I think he would approve…
