Few things feel as quintessentially British as the traditional Sunday roast. For generations, families have gathered around tables laden with roast meats, golden potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, and lashings of gravy. While home-cooked roasts remain special, one restaurant chain has perfected the art of serving them every day of the week: Toby Carvery. Known as the “Home of the Roast,” Toby Carvery has become a household name in the UK, delivering hearty meals and warm hospitality for decades.
A Brief History of Toby Carvery
Toby Carvery first opened its doors in the 1980s under the umbrella of Mitchells & Butlers, one of Britain’s largest restaurant and pub groups. The vision was simple but ambitious: bring the much-loved Sunday roast out of the confines of one day and make it available all week long.
From its early beginnings, Toby Carvery quickly established itself as more than just a restaurant—it became a tradition. With over 150 locations spread across the UK today, Toby has solidified its role as a go-to spot for affordable, filling, and comforting meals.
What Makes Toby Carvery Special?
The heart of Toby Carvery lies in its carvery station. Guests line up to be served freshly roasted meats by chefs who carve portions to order. Diners can choose from options such as roast beef, gammon, turkey, and sometimes lamb, depending on the day. Then comes the fun part—loading up the plate with unlimited sides, including:
- Crispy yet fluffy roast potatoes
- Steamed seasonal vegetables
- Creamy cauliflower cheese
- Giant Yorkshire puddings
- And of course, rich gravy
The combination of freshly carved meat with endless accompaniments makes the Toby experience both hearty and customisable.
Everyday Affordability
One of the reasons Toby Carvery has maintained its popularity is its commitment to value. For a reasonable price, families can enjoy a roast dinner that feels both indulgent and satisfying without breaking the bank. Midweek deals, children’s portions, and vegetarian/vegan options ensure that the restaurant caters to a wide audience.
More Than Just Roasts
While the carvery is the main attraction, Toby has expanded its menu to include breakfast buffets, desserts, and lighter bites. The Toby breakfast is particularly popular, offering a full English breakfast served buffet-style, allowing diners to pile their plates with sausages, bacon, eggs, and all the trimmings. Desserts, from sticky toffee pudding to ice cream sundaes, round off the experience for those with a sweet tooth.
A Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Part of Toby Carvery’s charm is its warm, relaxed environment. The restaurants are designed to feel inviting, with a pub-like atmosphere that encourages families, friends, and even solo diners to feel at home. Children are always welcome, and many locations offer activity packs or deals tailored to younger guests.
Sustainability and Modern Updates
In recent years, Toby Carvery has embraced changes to meet modern dining expectations. Plant-based roasts and vegan-friendly gravy have been introduced, ensuring that no one misses out on the joy of a carvery. The chain has also taken steps toward sustainability, reducing food waste and improving sourcing practices for its meats and vegetables.
Why Toby Carvery Endures
Food trends come and go, but Toby Carvery has stood the test of time because it taps into something timeless: comfort food. In a world where fast food dominates, Toby offers a slower, more communal style of dining. Sitting down to a roast dinner—whether on a Sunday with the family or on a Tuesday night after work—feels grounding, familiar, and deeply satisfying.
The Future of the Roast
As Toby Carvery continues to expand and evolve, it holds firmly to its roots. By blending tradition with innovation, it ensures that the beloved roast dinner stays relevant for new generations. Whether you’re tucking into crispy roasties with friends, piling on Yorkshire puddings after a long week, or introducing children to their first carvery experience, Toby remains a trusted place to celebrate food and togetherness.
