At Stauntons, food and drinks aren’t just consumed—they’re experienced together. Since its opening in 1997, the SOHO landmark has been celebrated not only for its hearty British finger food and fusion cuisine but also for its curated selection of wines, beers, and ales. What elevates the Stauntons experience is how well these drinks pair with the menu, creating perfect harmony on the palate.
This blog explores the art of pairing wine and beer with Stauntons’ signature dishes, offering insights into why certain combinations work and how guests can enhance their dining experience with every sip and bite.
The Art of Pairing at Stauntons
Pairing food with drinks is more than trial and error—it’s about balance. A good pairing ensures that neither the food nor the drink overpowers the other. Instead, they complement one another, enhancing flavors and textures.
Stauntons’ philosophy on pairing rests on three principles
- Complementary Flavors – Matching similar flavor profiles to enhance depth.
- Contrasting Flavors – Balancing rich or fatty dishes with crisp, refreshing drinks.
- Cultural Fusion – Infusing global inspirations into pairings that reflect SOHO’s diversity.
Beer Pairings: A Pub Classic
As a pub at heart, Stauntons has always been synonymous with beer culture. Its selection of lagers, ales, and craft brews is designed to offer something for every taste.
- Fish and Chips with Pale Ale – A golden-battered fish paired with a crisp pale ale. The beer’s light bitterness cuts through the richness of the dish.
- Scotch Eggs with IPA – The hearty, savory flavor of Scotch eggs balances beautifully with an IPA.
- Burgers with Stout – Juicy burgers paired with a dark stout, whose roasted coffee and chocolate notes enhance the smoky char of the meat.
- Sharing Platters with Wheat Beer – Lighter fare like nachos pairs with wheat beer’s citrusy freshness.
Wine Pairings: Elevating the Experience
Stauntons’ wine list spans global regions, curated for both casual drinkers and connoisseurs.
- Roast Chicken with Chardonnay – A full-bodied Chardonnay complements the savory roast flavors.
- Pies and Red Wine – Steak and ale or shepherd’s pies pair best with bold reds like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec.
- Seafood with Sauvignon Blanc – Crisp acidity balances the freshness of seafood dishes.
- Desserts with Dessert Wine – Sweet wines like Riesling or port pair with indulgent desserts.
Fusion Pairings: Reflecting SOHO’s Spirit
Stauntons’ fusion cuisine allows for playful pairings.
- Asian-inspired starters with sparkling wines or light lagers.
- Spicy dishes balanced by sweeter wines like Gewürztraminer or fruity wheat beers.
- Vegetarian platters enhanced by rosé wines for vibrancy.
Seasonal Pairing Highlights
Stauntons introduces seasonal specials for food and drink.
- Summer – Salads with rosé or citrusy wheat beers.
- Autumn – Roasts with full-bodied reds or dark ales.
- Winter – Stews with porters or spiced mulled wine.
- Spring – Fresh seafood with sparkling wines or pilsners.
Staff Recommendations: Personal Touch
Stauntons’ staff add value through personalized pairing advice. Their suggestions often become regulars’ favorites, adding warmth and familiarity to the experience.
Hosting Your Own Pairing Night
Stauntons is perfect for informal pairing nights:
- Order flights of beers or wines alongside shared plates.
- Experiment with different pairings to discover personal favorites.
- Learn directly from bartenders about pairing principles.
Why Pairing at Stauntons Works
- Diverse Menu – From pub classics to fusion dishes, pairing versatility is guaranteed.
- Curated Drink List – Wines and beers chosen to enhance food experiences.
- Community Feel – Pairings encourage sharing and conversation.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Pairing Options
Stauntons plans to elevate pairing experiences with:
- Themed pairing nights with wine regions or craft breweries.
- Educational events to teach pairing principles.
- Menu collaborations with local and sustainable producers.
Conclusion: The Perfect Match
At Stauntons, pairing isn’t just about food and drink—it’s about creating memories. Each sip and bite are thoughtfully aligned to ensure harmony and delight. Whether it’s fish and chips with a pale ale or pie with red wine, the experience elevates dining into something unforgettable.
Next time you visit SOHO, order your favorite dish at Stauntons and let the staff guide you to the perfect drink. Because at Stauntons, pairing perfection is more than a philosophy—it’s a promise.