The age-old argument over the ultimate pub snack has finally been put to rest, with a definitive ranking revealing the nation's top savoury treats to enjoy with a pint. According to a new study, the humble crisp reigns supreme in British hearts and bars across the land.
The Undisputed Champion of the Bar
In a survey of 2,008 people, conducted for British Lion Eggs, crisps emerged as the clear favourite, with a commanding 67% of respondents ranking them among their top pub snacks. This classic, crunchy companion to a drink has seen off all challengers to take the number one spot.
Securing second place were dry roasted peanuts, a staple of pub bowls for generations, favoured by 42% of those surveyed. The beloved sausage roll took the bronze medal, with 34% of voters placing the flaky, meat-filled pastry in their top picks.
A Mix of Tradition and Modern Tastes
The top ten list paints a vivid picture of British pub snacking habits, blending timeless classics with more contemporary options. Traditional fare like pork scratchings (24%), pork pies (22%), and the iconic Scotch egg (21%) all feature prominently, underscoring their enduring appeal.
More modern additions to pub menus have also found their audience. Olives, for instance, were chosen by 15% of people, indicating a shift in tastes. The list also includes the quintessentially British 'half a pint of prawns' (10%), a seaside tradition dating back to Victorian times in Kent and Essex coastal towns, where fresh prawns were served in half-pint glasses.
Other notable entries include scampi fries (22%), pickled eggs (9%), and even jerky, which 7% of people placed at the top of their list.
A Nostalgic Look at a Changing Landscape
Despite this clear ranking, the research also hints at a changing pub scene. A significant 68% of Brits reported that pubs now serve fewer classic bar snacks than they used to, suggesting a decline in availability. This sentiment is highlighted by the finding that fewer than one in six people had seen a Scotch egg for sale in a pub within the past month.
The survey also revealed a strong sense of pride in British produce. Nearly three quarters (74%) of respondents believe that the ingredients in pre-made snacks sold in pubs and supermarkets should be British wherever possible.
This snack-based research follows the recent naming of the UK's best pub, with The Highland Laddie in Leeds taking the top spot in the Good Food Guide, beating fierce competition from across the country.
