Shepherd's Pie

You know what a major contrast is between the UK and America? In America, there are just a few pubs, while in the UK, they are scattered across the map like a painted canvas. In Highgate, our small neighbourhood in North London, there are a whopping 35 pubs. It's a tiny area, and we're still puzzled by how so many cosy spots exist here. Pubs range from simple watering holes to more gastronomic delights, each with its own unique menu and ambiance. Once, we ventured to explore an old building on the main route into Highgate. With just one lane left due to the road narrowing, cars lined up in both directions. We were genuinely curious about the perpetual traffic jam. As it turns out, there's an ancient pub there with incredibly delicious food, like artichoke soup that made us forget all about the road. When one of Highgate's pubs could no longer keep up financially and closed its doors, the locals were deeply saddened. "How can you close a pub?" they lamented. "It's not just a place to eat; it's where souls come to relax and connect!" Another interesting titbit is that after a certain time, usually after 8, pubs often don't allow children. This rule can apply during the day too; if you have a teenage daughter, she can't sit in the bar. A 12-year-old girl may be asked if she's 18 and then politely directed to a corner near the entrance or to another room. Those rules can be set in stone in certain establishments. My overall take on pubs is this: comfy leather seats, slightly sticky tables, a crackling fireplace and quirky wall art. It's lively, loud and full of charm. After a while, you start to really enjoy the atmosphere. For a hearty lunch at a gastro-pub, I usually go for one of the pies. My top pick is Shepherd's pie. It's not your typical pie but a savoury delight of minced meat topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Simple, delicious and oh-so satisfying.