Dean’s, a new spot in SoHo, serves a dish that’s hard to ignore: stargazy pie. Picture this: a glossy fish head peeking through a golden crust, almost looking up at the ceiling. It’s a quirky presentation, but it nods to a curious history from Cornwall. Legend has it that a fisherman named Tom Bawcock faced a fierce storm to catch enough fish to save his village from starvation. To celebrate, the townsfolk baked all the fish into a giant pie, leaving the heads sticking out to show their good fortune.
At Dean’s, the pie is smaller but no less delicious. Under the buttery crust is a rich filling of fish and soft potatoes, creamy and comforting—definitely not as freaky as it looks!
This restaurant comes from Jess Shadbolt and Annie Shi, who gained recognition from their other eateries, including the popular King. While King embraces a gentle touch with Italian and French cuisine, Dean’s boldly showcases British flavors. The dishes may have humble names like “boiled ham,” but make no mistake; they pack a punch.
Shadbolt grew up near the coast, and that influence is clear. At Dean’s, strange-sounding meals can turn out to be the stars of the show. Take the boiled ham, for example. It’s a delightful surprise: tender meat paired with a parsley béchamel and buttery potatoes.
Recent food trends show that diners are leaning into comfort food that feels familiar but has a twist. According to a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association, over 70% of restaurant-goers say they are looking for unique dining experiences and hearty meals. Dean’s captures this perfectly by offering a modern touch on traditional British fare.
Plus, social media is buzzing about their dishes, with patrons posting photos of the stargazy pie and sharing rave reviews. Restaurants like Dean’s are embracing their cultural roots while inviting diners on a culinary adventure. Whether you’re in it for the flavor or the quirky presentation, Dean’s is another place redefining what comfort food can be.
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