Is The Butcher’s Hook & Cleaver the City’s best pub?
We have launched the Toast the City awards 2026 and throughout the year we’ll be speaking to some of the nominees. Today we caught up with The Butcher’s Hook & Cleaver general manager Iliana, whose awesome pub has been nominated in the Best Boozer category. To nominate your favourite Square Mile spots, from the best pubs to galleries and green spaces, .
Tell us about yourself
My name is Iliana and I’m the general manager of The Butcher’s Hook & Cleaver, which is owned and operated by Fuller Smith & Turner. I’ve worked here for three years but have been with Fuller’s for 11 years. The pub first opened in 1999.
What makes The Butcher’s Hook & Cleaver stand out?
We serve consistently high quality food and drink. We’re efficient – but we always ensure warm and welcoming hospitality. We’re also known for being a great sun trap in the summer, with large crowds gathering in front of the pub on sunny summer days.
How would your regulars describe you in three words?
Funny, organised, passionate.
What does The Butcher’s Hook & Cleaver do better than anyone else?
Our speed of service along with our range and quality of beers
What’s been the biggest challenge running a business in the City?
Building a strong and efficient team – I’m pleased to say I have a fantastic team at The Butcher’s Hook.
What are you excited about?
We’re excited about the British Museum opening at the end of the year and all the new visitors that will bring – plus the new offices opening around us.
How has the Square Mile changed?
We see a lot more tourists on the weekends now and with more offices opening around us, we’re seeing more people during the week too.
What’s a small detail you obsess over at The Butcher’s Hook & Cleaver?
Keeping the copper on the front bar dry and clean
What’s the most memorable feedback you’ve had?
Christmas 2024 – the pub was so busy and it felt like everything was going wrong. A lovely lady gave me a hug, told me I was doing a great job and reassured me. It really made me feel better in such a busy and stressful time.
Who is your typical customer?
Our typical customers are young professionals working in the area, either coming by for lunch or for a drink on the way home.
What’s one trend you’re embracing at The Butcher’s Hook & Cleaver – and one you’re not?
We embrace low and no alcohol beers and other alcohol-free alternatives – Lucky Saint is really popular. We’re not ignoring it but, but we don’t sell a wide range of complex cocktails, just spritzes and the occasional margarita.
Which other City venues do you rate highly?
The Vintry on Abchurch Lane, The Banker on Cousin Lane and The Ned are all some of my favourites.
What does a perfect day in the Square Mile look like?
A sunny day with nice vibes and smiley customers all enjoying their favourite ice cold drinks – at The Butcher’s Hook & Cleaver!