Wednesday 04 February 2026 5:31 pm
Pub of the Week: Toast Award-Winner The Rising Sun on Carter Lane
By: Steve Dinneen, Life&Style Editor
Nobody cherishes a traditional pub quite like City AM. Over the years, we have passionately campaigned for these beloved establishments, reported extensively on their challenges, and honoured the finest among them through our prestigious Toast the City Awards. Now, we are thrilled to introduce a brand-new regular feature dedicated to celebrating the very best drinking holes within the Square Mile and its surrounding areas.
A City Steeped in Pub Culture
While the precise count of pubs nestled within the historic banking district is a topic of lively debate and constant fluctuation, it is widely acknowledged that there are well over 200 establishments. This remarkable density solidifies the City of London's reputation as the most drinker-friendly locale in the entire country. As you navigate its winding, ancient streets, you are almost certain to stumble upon a bar boasting a rich heritage spanning some 400 years. To put this into perspective, St Albans Old Town, often hailed as a haven for publicans, is home to approximately 60 pubs. In comparison, those are rookie numbers indeed.
From this point forward, and for as long as our collective livers permit, you can anticipate a fresh, curated recommendation for a standout City pub each and every week. Better still, you can have this weekly highlight delivered directly to your inbox by signing up for our new dedicated newsletter. And what more fitting venue could there be to inaugurate this exciting series than the esteemed winner of our Toast the City award for the best boozer in the City?
The Rising Sun on Carter Lane
What is the Vibe?
There is a compelling reason why this establishment has been officially crowned the best pub in the Square Mile. From the celebratory mural adorning its window, which proudly displays its Toast Award, to the bright and airy expanse of this traditional Victorian gin palace, you instinctively know this is a place where you can comfortably while away an entire afternoon. Arrive early, and you will find a handful of loyal locals gathered at the bar, with a smattering of laptops appearing around lunchtime before the inevitable evening rush.
The walls are tastefully decorated with vintage black and white photographs capturing the City's bygone eras, alongside classic advertisements for Guinness and Taylor's. The carefully curated soundtrack seamlessly transitions from the soulful tones of Tom Jones to the iconic sounds of Fleetwood Mac and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The music is played at just the right volume, blending harmoniously with the general hubbub of conversation, its notes echoing pleasantly around the pub's characterful high ceilings.
What is the History of The Rising Sun?
The building's origins date back to the 1720s when it served as a vintner's house. It was subsequently converted into a pub in 1831, beginning its long legacy as a cherished watering hole. Today, it is lovingly run by a delightful couple named Sheila and Tony. Their dedication represents a true labour of love, which alone would make a visit worthwhile, even if the pub were not such an outstanding venue in its own right.
How is The Rising Sun's Food?
Many bars operate with a fixed notion of what classic pub food should entail—think fish and chips, burgers, and a hearty pie—and strive to replicate these staples. However, executing fish and chips, burgers, and pies to an exceptional standard is notoriously difficult. It demands a dedicated chef with considerable kitchen expertise, access to high-quality ingredients, and perhaps even an early morning trip to the wet market.
The Rising Sun, in contrast, has carved out a brilliant niche by offering an excellent selection of toasties. These are reliably superb, featuring nice sourdough bread, generous heaps of cheddar cheese, and a tempting range of toppings that include jalapeños, tuna, and the classic ham. It is a focused and expertly executed menu that perfectly complements the pub's convivial atmosphere.
