Pies are comfort food, a British staple, a buttery bundle of stomach-lining satisfaction – but that doesn't mean they can't be pretty too.
London's long history of pie production is currently riding an aesthetic high, with chefs across the capital giving the classic snack a visually refined makeover.
Across the city, pastry fans can tuck into perfect pithiviers, very piggy pies and delicately decorated floral creations.
From traditional delights to quirky concoctions, these are the most exquisite pies in the capital.
Holborn Dining Room
Calum Franklin is the undisputed pie master, as this chicken and girolle creation with a foliage top proves.
£23, 252 High Holborn, WC1. holborndiningroom.com
Bentley’s Oyster Bar and Grill
Turbot en croûte to share has the king of fish wrapped in a soft, flaky crust, served on a silver platter.
£80, 11-15 Swallow Street, W1. bentleys.org
Kerridge’s Bar and Grill
Tom Kerridge takes the nose-to-tail mentality to the letter with this pig cheek pie, which is shaped into a snout.
£24.50, 10 Northumberland Ave, WC2. kerridgesbarandgrill.co.uk
Bob Bob Cité
Living up to the £25 million decor, Bob Bob Cité’s poulet pie has suitable pizzazz, topped with a glazed illustration of a chicken.
£19.50, 122 Leadenhall St, EC3. bobbobcite.com
Allegra
Patrick Powell’s elegant Stratford dining room serves a picture perfect pithivier filled with smoked eel, parsley and chilli vinegar.
£14, 20 International Way, E20. allegra-restaurant.com
