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Housed in a unique Grade 2 listed building in the heart of Farringdon, The Quality Chop House's historical and architectural importance has been recognised by English Heritage which registered 94 Farringdon Road as a 'building of importance to our nation for the interest of its architectural design, decoration and craftsmanship as well as its historical interest which displays important aspects of the nations social, economic and cultural history'.
*Farringdon Road - 1890 - A view of The Quality Chop House
The Quality Chop House was designed and built by Sir Roland Plumbe, a renowned architect, in the 1870's. Plumbe was a Fellow of the Royal Institute of British Architects, a Member of RIBA, Master of the Painter and Stainers Company and a learned author of several papers on architecture. But he was perhaps best remembered in his field for trying to attempt to use architectural ingenuity as a social remedy.
Today, the Quality Chop House is one of the rare survivors of late nineteenth century working-class chop houses, once termed 'eating-houses' for their no-nonsense offering of good hearty traditional British food, where London gentleman would come and enjoy a hearty meal. 'A roughness but it was a cosy roughness', said E Callow 1899
*Exmouth Street Market, Farringdon - c1906
In the early 1980's, The Quality Chop House underwent a major refurbishment, whilst ensuring that the décor depicted much of the history relating to the Victorian diner. Many of the original high quality fittings dating back to the late nineteenth century have remained.
The shop front reveals an insight into the history of the building with stain glass windows stating 'London's Noted Cup of Tea, 'Progressive Working Class Caterers, 'Best Quality'. Inside, nine bays of oak benches and oak tables are bolted to the floor and walls with ornate castings which surround regular diners who still enjoy their meals today.
Recently accommodation that adjoins the restaurant was transformed in to a bar and bistro, all in the original image, that makes this 'Retrochic' venue a must for a visit.
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* Pictures provided by the Exmouth Arms Public House
in Exmouth Market
