October 26th 2024.
Harringtons, a beloved pie and mash shop, has been a staple in London's culinary scene since its opening in 1908. Run by the same family for an impressive 116 years, it has become a familiar and cherished spot for locals and tourists alike. However, the news of its closure has left many saddened and nostalgic for the traditional Cockney dish.
In recent years, there has been a growing concern over the preservation of pie, mash, and liquor, with some even calling for its recognition as a protected dish. Just last week, Members of Parliament debated whether to grant it a special status, but unfortunately, the outcome did not work in Harringtons' favor. The establishment has announced that it will be closing its doors on Selkirk Street in Tooting, with a heavy heart.
This closure is just one of many in the past few decades, as the number of pie and mash shops in London has dwindled by two-thirds since its heyday 30 years ago. The decline has been a cause for concern among those who have grown up with the dish and continue to crave its traditional taste. In a statement on social media, Harringtons expressed the difficulty of the decision to close, as it has been a family business for over a century. However, they have decided to move forward and put the property up for sale.
Despite the impending closure, Harringtons is still open and serving up their famous hot pies and mash for their loyal customers to enjoy. The low cost of their traditional pies, priced at just £2 each, has made it a popular spot for regulars who travel from all over the country to indulge in their favorite meal. The news of the closure has been met with an outpouring of love and support from customers, many of whom have fond memories of their first visit to the shop as children.
One customer shared, "All my children had their first meal there as babies. I'm so sorry you are closing. I hope and pray a pie n mash lover buys it and keeps up the tradition." Another expressed their sadness, saying, "That is incredibly upsetting news, our family have always visited your pie and mash shop, it was nan's favourite meal! I even trek all the way down from Birmingham now to have a delicious pie and mash! I will need to squeeze one more visit in before you go."
As Londoners mourn the loss of this iconic local establishment, other news from the capital continues to make headlines. In a recent incident, thieves smashed up a shop in London and made off with expensive suits worth £6,000, moments after the police had driven past. In contrast, the House of Commons focused on a more pressing matter, with MPs debating whether to give Traditional Speciality Guaranteed status to pie, mash, and liquor. This would provide recognition and protection to the dish, ensuring its inclusion in British culinary heritage.
The debate was led by Richard Holden, MP for Basildon and Billericay, who described the dish as "the original fast food." He also emphasized the importance of preserving British staples, such as Cornish pasties, Bramley apple pies, and Melton Mowbray pork pies. Similarly, Andy Green, the founder of the Modern Cockney Festival, shared his thoughts on the matter, stating that a listed traditional food status would give a mark of recognition and celebrate the dish's enduring popularity.
In conclusion, the closure of Harringtons marks the end of an era for London's pie and mash scene. While the future of this iconic dish remains uncertain, its loyal fans hold out hope for its preservation and recognition as a traditional British delicacy.
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