Popular independent Clapham pub, The King & Co is to welcome two London pop-up chefs to its kitchen this August, with a special one-week takeover by Crafty Pies followed by an extended residency by Cucina Rustica.
The renowned craft beer pub will also host a huge tap takeover by Vibrant Forest brewery on Thursday 10th August, with free samples of a wide selection of keg and cask beers and the chance to chat to the team behind the brews.
From today until Sunday 6 August, visitors will be able to tuck into the distinctive pies by up-and-coming trader and British Streetfood Awards finalist Crafty Pies. Founder Jay Greenwood is on a mission to revolutionise the public’s perception of the classic pie and elevate this dish to a whole new level, taking traditional flavours and adding his own clever twist.
The menu for the exclusive week-long kitchen takeover will feature both of Crafty Pies’ winners from 2017’s British Pie Awards, the Silver prized Whisky Smoked BBQ Pulled Chicken and the Bronze medalist Jamaican Jerk Sweet Potato Curry, as well as signature creations like their unique Crafty 'Burger' combining a pastry base, a brioche bun lid and the best of an American hamburger inside.
All of the pies will be served with a side such as Smashed Garlic and Rosemary Crispy Spuds plus sauce and homemade bone marrow gravy, ideal as a satisfying Summer supper on the pub’s outdoor beer deck.
Taking over the helm of The King & Co’s kitchen on Monday 7th August will be much-loved popup chef Cucina Rustica, for an extended residency running daily until Sunday 3rd September.
Founder Giorgio’s menu is influenced by the flavours of his childhood spent in his Sicilian family’s restaurants as well as the region’s rustic streetfood, and he is committed to sourcing not only the best local London ingredients but also the finest imported Italian produce to give his cooking its authentic taste.
Those looking for a light bite with their pint or a feast to share with friends can take their pick from a tempting array of antipasti, including beef and pork Sicilian Meatballs made using Nonna’s trusted recipe, and Arancini Rustica mozzarella risotto balls famous from the team’s previous successful sessions at the Duke’s Head in Highgate and Unwined in Tooting.
The 'kings of bruschetta' will serve up a daily choice of breads, toasted with olive oil and toppings ranging from spicy nduja and mascarpone, to parma ham and figs drizzled with honey, and bocconcini with tomato salsa.
Grande plates like freshly-made Pumpkin Tortellini will also be available and sweet tooths are sure to be satisfied by Cucina Rustica’s Doughnut Gnocchi filled wth molten nutella chocolate.
During the daytime at weekends, pub guests can enjoy inventive twists on breakfast favourites and Sunday lunches prepared by the two kitchen residents. Alongside their acclaimed Bottomless Boozy Brunch, The King & Co now offers a great value Beery Brunch between 12 noon and 4pm on Saturdays, allowing craft beer lovers a bespoke choice of nine thirds from the bar’s extensive keg and cask beer collection to accompany their brunch meal for just £25 per person.
On Thursday 10 August, The King & Co will team up with Vibrant Forest for their latest Tap Takeover, showcasing a vast collection of craft beers by the New Forest based microbrewery.
Starting at 7pm, the evening will highlight ten keg and four cask brews rarely be found in London, with free samples of bestsellers like their flagship Kaleidoscope IPA and Cydonia American Red Ale, plus the opportunity to talk to the team of rising stars about all of their unfined vegan-friendly craft beers.