On Monday, 17th February 2025, we turned our industrial warehouse into something truly extraordinary—a pop-up pub like no other. Dubbed Aubrey’s Arms, this exclusive one-day event brought together some of the UK’s most talented chefs, including Alain Roux from the Waterside Inn, Bray, for an unforgettable celebration of butchery, cheese, and craftsmanship.
From the moment our guests arrived, they were transported into a world of culinary excellence. Over 80 top chefs indulged in the delights of our Empress Ales bar, sampled exquisite Fromage to Age cheeses and delicatessen, and explored the Allen Street Market. Each guest received toy coins—our unique take on a currency exchange – to ‘buy’ real meat to take home.
A Masterclass in Butchery
One of the highlights of the event was an incredible butchery demonstration led by world-renowned butcher Mick Perkins, with expert commentary from the legendary Peter Allen. Watching master butchers at work is always a spectacle, but this was next-level craftsmanship—precision cutting, expert techniques, and a passion for quality that defines everything we do at Aubrey Allen.
Behind the Scenes of Dry-Aged Perfection
Chefs were also given the rare opportunity to step inside our usually locked dry-ageing rooms, where some of the finest beef in the UK matures to perfection. As the sign on the door reads: “This is where the magic happens.” When the doors slid open, the experience took on a Willy Wonka-esque moment of wonder. Witnessing the art of dry-ageing firsthand left an unforgettable impression on everyone who entered.
Fireside Chat with a Culinary Icon
One of our highlights? The fireside chat with three Michelin-starred chef Alain Roux! Following in the footsteps of legends such as Raymond Blanc and Sat Bains, this intimate conversation had a strong family feel. Russell Allen led the discussion, surrounded by photographs of Alain’s father, the late Michel Roux Sr., a pioneer in French cuisine. The warmth of the conversation, the shared memories, and the respect for tradition created an inspiring and emotional atmosphere.
A Day to Remember
As the event came to a close, our guests left with smiles on their faces, full bellies, and goody bags groaning with gourmet delights. The energy was electric as DJs, including Kirsty Leahy, kept the music flowing and the party atmosphere alive.
Aubrey’s Arms was more than an event—it was an experience. A true celebration of butchery, cheese, and the extraordinary people behind the industry. We are already dreaming about what we can create next!
Why Events Like These Matter
At Aubrey Allen, we believe in bringing people together through exceptional food experiences. From sustainably sourced, high-welfare British meats to artisanal cheeses from over 100 English producers, our commitment to quality and tradition shines through in everything we do. Whether you’re a Michelin-starred chef or a passionate foodie, Aubrey Allen is where the best ingredients meet world-class expertise.
Stay tuned for more exclusive events, and if you’d like to experience our award-winning butchery and cheese for yourself, get in touch with the team.
