There’s a reason why this place gets everyone talking
The Unruly Pig isn’t just any pub, it’s the UK’s best gastropub. When a place repeatedly hits the top spot in the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs Awards, it’s clear they’re doing something right. Whether it’s the chef-driven menus that celebrate British produce with a Mediterranean twist or the warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel instantly at home, people don’t just visit The Unruly Pig—they experience it.
With award-winning food (number one gastropub, best pub at the GQ Food and Drink Awards, and a solid placement in the National Restaurant Awards) and service that leaves a lasting impression, it’s no wonder food lovers flock here. It’s not just a meal—it’s an adventure.
And Everyone Loves an Adventure
This particular adventure required an overnight stay, so we booked into The Old Rectory B&B in Campsea Ashe, which, to be honest, when we first browsed their website, felt like it could be a mistake. How wrong we were.
Our taxi dropped us off on the edge of the estate, where trimmed hedges, a barn, tennis courts, and beautifully landscaped gardens created a postcard-worthy scene. The gravel car park was dotted with a couple of impressive cars, parked in that casual-but-careful way that screams “I’ve arrived.”
We rung the doorbell and suddenly, a dog barked. I stepped back, expecting a beast ready to charge. But instead we were greeted by a boy of about 10, who told us we’ve come to the wrong entrance and were actually standing at the front door of his family home. Charming! He then invited us inside, casually mentioning that his dad was five minutes away but that he could show us to our room. Then, out of nowhere, a massive dog appeared in the hallway, but the kid—cool as anything—commanded it into another room and shut the door. After a quick phone call to his dad, which he conducted in fluent French, we were led to our room. Where were we again?
Dinner at The Unruly Pig
After this surreal yet oddly charming check-in, we headed to the main event: The Unruly Pig. We walked into a chorus of friendly hellos and head nods before being seated. The vibe was just right, cosy yet lively. On the wall, a photograph of The Sopranos cast all gathered around Tony Soprano caught my eye, setting the tone for the night: bold, distinctive, and memorable. The eclectic art dotted around the rooms made it feel more like a curated gallery than your typical gastropub.
We kicked things off with fried Mersea oysters, all briny and crisp, before more seafood, including the smoky, spicy BBQ octopus with nduja dressing and the delicate and refreshing hand-dived Orkney scallop crudo. But the showstopper of the night was the Bistecca alla Fiorentina. This T-bone steak for two was a sight to behold, with the bone standing proudly at the centre of the plate, surrounded by perfectly cooked slices of beef. Paired with roasted garlic bearnaise, decadent sides like chorizo & nduja mac ‘n’ cheese and a fresh tomato, burrata, and basil salad, it was a meal of ultimate indulgence.
Even after all that, we somehow found room for dessert. The Tosier 72% chocolate & hazelnut tart with blackberry sorbet was rich and bittersweet —no regrets here, just bliss.
The Verdict
The Unruly Pig isn’t just a place to eat, it’s a full-blown experience. From the thoughtful dishes showcasing the best local and seasonal ingredients to the welcoming, unpretentious atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where every detail feels considered. You don’t just leave satisfied, you leave already planning your next visit.
Would I go back? In a heartbeat. The food, the service, the vibe—it’s all a 10/10.
Orford Road, Bromeswell, Nr Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 2PU
theunrulypig.co.uk