One of UK’s last remaining pie and mash shops to close its doors in days after 116 years on the high street
ONE of the UK’s last remaining pie and mash shops will close its doors in just a few days after over a century of serving the iconic meal.
Despite being a high street staple in London, the iconic family-run venue it shuttering after 116 years of business.
Britain’s beloved traditional dish will no longer be served at Harrington’s Eel and Pie House in Tooting from March 29.
Throughout its lengthy existence, the pie and mash shop has been owned by the same family, who are gutted to finally sell up.
In an emotional post on social media, Harrington’s owner said: “As you can imagine it’s not been an easy decision for myself and the family to come to.
“In fact it’s been very upsetting when it’s been in the family 116 years, but unfortunately as a family we’ve decided we need to move forward.”
“We know this will be a sad moment for many of you.
“We have so many wonderful memories that we will cherish forever.”
The classic take-away menu offered pies, mash, a carton of licker, eels with licker, jellied eels, and plain or chilli vinegar.
COVID-19 was a blow to the store as it made the decision to shut until it was “safe to reopen.”
Despite surviving the pandemic, the pie and mash shop were no longer able to stay afloat through 2025.
Devastated customers responded to the announcement on Instagram, sharing their grief over the closure.
One said: “So many happy memories with my family here.
“Going to be travelling up from East Sussex next week to have my last best-ever dinner.
“Sorry this is happening.”
Another devastated diner responded: “My favourite meal ever, with liquor and plenty of chilli vinegar.
“So sorry that you’re having to close.”
A third simply wrote: “Absolutely gutted.”
Pie and mash fans are not at a complete loss however as a few stores serving the iconic menu are open in the city.
G Kelly on Roman Road, M Manze in Peckham and Goddard’s in Hoxton all serve up pie and mash can also be found in in the capital.
WHY ARE RESTAURANT CLOSING
The hospitality industry is facing mounting pressures, including soaring bills, rising costs, and squeezed budgets.
More closures could be on the horizon due to upcoming hikes in employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) and the national minimum wage.
Many food and drink businesses have faced significant challenges recently, as the rising cost of living has led to a decline in dining out.
After struggling to recover from the impact of the pandemic, many establishments were then hit with soaring energy bills and mounting inflationary pressures.
This has forced several well-known chains to shut locations, with big brands like Wetherspoons and Frankie & Benny’s among those affected.
What is happening to the hospitality industry?
By Laura McGuire, consumer reporter
MANY Food and drink chains have been struggling in recently as the cost of living has led to fewer people spending on eating out.
Businesses had been struggling to bounce back after the pandemic, only to be hit with soaring energy bills and inflation.
Multiple chains have been affected, resulting in big-name brands like Wetherspoons and Frankie & Benny’s closing branches.
Some chains have not survived, Byron Burger fell into administration last year, with owners saying it would result in the loss of over 200 jobs.
Pizza giant, Papa Johns is shutting down 43 of its stores soon.
Tasty, the owner of Wildwood, said it will shut sites as part of major restructuring plans