The Rising Sun — Restaurant in Epsom and Ewell

Took the 406 / 418 from Surbiton to check out one of the newer Big Smoke pubs. The classic winning formula, reclaiming old local pubs and transforming them with a consistent aesthetic but somehow retaining the integrity of the pub before it.

Originally a beer house, The Rising Sun first became a pub around 1870. It's the founding place and meeting point to this day for the Epsom Cycling Club since 1891. And in 1963, pre-CAMRA, the "Society for Preservation of Beer from the Wood" was set up here, although now remains more of a social club. It's later years it was referred to as "The Japanese Embassy" too, due to the Japanese Flag that used to hang outside of it - whether anyone still calls it that, given the absence of a flag, I don't know.

Back to the present day pub though! Cosy, lots of nooks and tables. Fire was roaring. Families and couples throughout. Hesitant to pap unsuspecting punters for this, so just pointed the empty spaces to give a feel.

The usual Big Smoke suspects on offer, but while a Harvey's Best Bitter and Big Smoke Underworld on cask were extremely tempting. Opted for old faithful Deya Steady Rolling Man, repeat order x5 plz. The food game is top tier pub grub. Baby Back BBQ ribs have kept me full for a few days since, and the sides and veggie options are plentiful.

The garden needed a bit of love when I went the first time around, it has since been vastly improved. The canopy awnings you see at the other pubs will be brought in here, and outside heaters on the way too. The pub also has an upstairs area, reserved for the rugby on the weekends, which was nice to be able to create that space for those not looking to be surrounded by adults screaming at an egg.

Service was warm and inviting as always. Something about a Big Smoke pub (both staff and venue) making you feel like it's your local, even if you've travelled to get there. Find your nearest one, or take a stroll down Epsom Downs and pop...

I had recently started to go to this pub with friends just for drinks, but one evening we decided to get food too. I chose the Big Smoke Burger, which came with pulled pork, smoked cheddar, pickles, and fries on the side. The aged beef was moist, flavoursome, and not overcooked or dry, and along with the tasty marinated brisket, made a decent meaty combination. The cheese and pickles added more depth and flavour to complete the burger. The fries were crispy and had a nice coating around them. So overall, a good experience...but why the 4 stars then? Well, for £16.45 I just don't believe I was getting my money's worth...for what I paid there should have been more fries, instead of limiting them to that small cup they came in. Also, there should have been another side option included too...maybe a choice of coleslaw, onion rings, small corn on the cob, ecc. As you can see, the dish looks fairly small, and the plate is rather empty from the picture, so that is my only negative. The service is always friendly, relaxed, and professional...so if you're looking for decent grub and a warm atmosphere, then definitely check this place out! Dogs are...

I haven't been to this pub in Epsom before and our Christmas meal was taking place there . I volunteer in Cancer Research and the charity treat volunteers to a lovely Christmas meal out. The place was perfect for a largish group , food was really good. This pub is a cozy local, popular with local residents because, when I arrived a little early, I perched on one of the seats in the area as the rest of the pub was full. I really liked it and another volunteer told me that they have a lovely beer garden outside but it is December and rainy so I'll take their word for it. I really liked the atmosphere and friendly welcoming from the staff when they saw me sitting on my own. We had a very enjoyable evening with food, friends and a funny game of drawing a guided Christmas scene on a paper plate on our heads. Liked the atmosphere. Thank you CRUK. Merry Christmas 🤶 Pricing is only on there because I bought a drink . I can't comment on the pubs usual menu as ours was a set menu and a treat but a nice venue for a works do with friendly staff and a...