Rugby fans are in for a treat this autumn as two southern hemisphere legends head to the City for a pair of unforgettable lunches.
The events will be hosted by former England prop David Flatman and ex-Wales international Tom Shanklin, better known as Flats & Shanks.
The quick-witted double act behind one of rugby’s most popular podcasts will bring fans face-to-face with two southern hemisphere giants of the game – Wallabies legend Michael Lynagh and All Blacks great Justin Marshall.
The lunches at The Singer Tavern and Harrild & Sons, two of the city’s most popular venues owned by Urban Pubs & Bars, are timed to coincide with the Autumn Internationals at Twickenham, offering the ultimate warm-up to England’s clashes with Australia and New Zealand.
Each event blends a curated dining experience with insider rugby chat, perfectly paired Southern Hemisphere wines and the kind of candid storytelling you can only get from legends of the sport.
Guests can expect a curated three course lunch, including slow-braised beef shin with truffle mash, a crisp-skinned fillet of sea bass served with roasted fennel and citrus beurre blanc, and indulgent desserts like sticky toffee pudding with clotted cream.
At the Singer Tavern in Old Street on October 29, World Cup winner and fly-half maestro Michael Lynagh will reflect on his glittering career, his leadership as Wallabies captain, and his place among rugby’s most influential playmakers.
Guests can expect an afternoon of great three course lunch and wine, plus the chance to put their own questions to Lynagh during a live audience Q&A.
Two weeks later on November 12, at Harrild & Sons in Farringdon, the focus shifts to New Zealand as scrum-half Justin Marshall takes centre stage.
With 81 test caps for the All Blacks and five Super Rugby titles with the Crusaders, Marshall remains one of the game’s most dynamic and outspoken voices. Over lunch and wine, he’ll share stories from his playing days, life on tour, and his transition from the pitch to the commentary box.
Both events are designed to be more than just a meal. Guests will enjoy a three-course menu prepared by Urban Pubs & Bars’ expert chefs, with each dish complemented by wines chosen and introduced by winemakers from Peter Lehmann Wines (Australia) and Heaphy Wines (New Zealand).
This unique combination of sport and gastronomy gives fans a chance to savour both the flavour of the southern hemisphere and the stories behind the great rugby rivalries.
Each lunch will culminate in a live Q&A hosted by Flats & Shanks, who will guide the conversation with their trademark mix of sharp humour and deep rugby insight. Their on-stage chemistry guarantees a lively, entertaining afternoon filled with anecdotes, laughter, and genuine connection between audience and players.
James Metcalfe, Urban Pubs & Bars Sales & Marketing Director, said: “After the success of the Lions Tour this Summer, we’re really looking forward to the Autumn Internationals, and what better way to kick things off than with some unique rugby lunches in our flagship city venues. We’re bringing together two Southern Hemisphere legends, pairing them with celebrated winemakers, and two of rugby’s most entertaining personalities in Flats and Shanks, all in the ideal setting of our City venues. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the Autumn Internationals, and we can’t wait to welcome fans throughout the Autumn.”
Tickets are priced at £95 per person, including a three-course lunch, wine pairings and guided tastings, plus the chance to hear first-hand from two of rugby’s all-time greats. Both lunches begin at 12:30pm and spaces are limited.
