The Fine Cider Company's Felix Nash On the Best Restaurants Serving the Sweet Beverage

Cider has come a long way from its rustic, often-overlooked origins. Thanks to trailblazers like Felix Nash, the founder of The Fine Cider Company, this once-humble drink is now celebrated as an artisanal craft beverage worthy of fine dining. With ten years of advocating for minimal intervention cider-making and supplying some of the world’s most prestigious restaurants, Felix has become a cornerstone of the modern cider movement. To mark this milestone, Felix opened a permanent bottle shop and tasting space in London Fields, creating a hub for cider lovers and curious foodies alike. Here, Felix shares his guide to the best restaurants serving cider, where this complex and versatile beverage shines alongside exceptional cuisine.

St John

Known for its nose-to-tail ethos, St John is a pioneer of modern British cuisine, and it’s no surprise that they’ve embraced cider with equal passion. The restaurant’s robust, seasonal dishes pair beautifully with the nuanced flavours of natural cider. Whether you’re enjoying their iconic roast bone marrow or a hearty terrine, the curated cider selection offers a refreshing complement.

Location: 26 St John St, London EC1M 4AY | Website: www.stjohnrestaurant.com |

Phone: +44 20 7251 0848 | Instagram: @st.john.restaurant | Facebook: St John Restaurant

The Fat Duck

Heston Blumenthal’s three-Michelin-starred restaurant, The Fat Duck, is a temple to culinary innovation. Cider plays an unexpected yet integral role in some of its groundbreaking pairings. The restaurant’s dedication to exploring flavour makes it a perfect venue for appreciating the complexity of cider alongside its imaginative dishes.

Location: High St, Bray SL6 2AQ | Website: www.thefatduck.co.uk | Phone: +44 1628 580333

Instagram: @thefatduck | Facebook: The Fat Duck

The Ledbury

A symbol of refined dining in Notting Hill, The Ledbury is renowned for its elegant, ingredient-focused cuisine. Their cider list, curated by Felix and his team, showcases the drink’s versatility. Pair their signature dishes like the flame-grilled mackerel with one of Felix’s recommended bottles for a dining experience that’s both luxurious and grounded.

Location: 127 Ledbury Rd, London W11 2AQ | Website: www.theledbury.com |

Phone: +44 20 7792 9090 | Instagram: @theledbury | Facebook: The Ledbury

Lyle’s

This Michelin-starred eatery in Shoreditch champions British produce with a minimalistic approach that lets ingredients shine. The same philosophy applies to their cider selection, which is carefully chosen to complement their seasonal menu. Felix’s collaboration with Lyle’s ensures that cider enthusiasts and novices alike can discover the drink’s potential.

Location: Tea Building, 56 Shoreditch High St, London E1 6JJ | Website: www.lyleslondon.com |

Phone: +44 20 3011 5911 | Instagram: @lyleslondon | Facebook: Lyle's

The Water House Project

An immersive dining experience, The Water House Project blends a supper club atmosphere with fine dining. Their multi-course tasting menus are paired with carefully selected beverages, including cider. The interplay between cider’s acidity and their inventive dishes creates a dynamic culinary journey.

Location: 1 Corbridge Crescent, London E2 9DS | Website: www.thewaterhouseproject.com |

Phone: +44 20 8050 5886 | Instagram: @thewaterhouseproject | Facebook: The Water House Project

KOL

Mexican cuisine meets British ingredients at KOL, where cider pairs effortlessly with bold, vibrant flavours. Head Chef Santiago Lastra’s menu emphasises sustainability and creativity, and cider’s crisp, clean profile acts as a perfect counterpoint to the restaurant’s earthy, spicy dishes.

Location: 9 Seymour St, London W1H 7JW | Website: www.kolrestaurant.com |

Phone: +44 20 3829 6888 | Instagram: @kol.restaurant | Facebook: KOL