Cat and Fiddle Celebrates Its 40th Anniversary

The Cat and Fiddle Pub and Restaurant is celebrating its 40th Anniversary this week. Affectionately known as “The Cat,” they originally opened in Laurel Canyon and later located to its present location on Highland Ave in Hollywood. This Anniversary is a significant milestone event for one of LA’s longest-running establishments. The celebration includes special pricing and live entertainment and runs through today, Sat. Oct 22. 

Since 1982, The Cat has served traditional British food and beverages. The original intent for the pub was to be a gathering place for the neighborhood where all were welcome. “40 years young and many pints later, my family and our staff continue to welcome our guests with the same open arms my parents first offered the community many years ago,” said Ashlee Gardner, who runs the pub with her mum Paula.

The place was hopping and fully decked out for their Anniversary with helium-filled balloons and 40th-anniversary commemorative buttons and t-shirts. The weather was excellent, and my wife and I enjoyed dining outside on their patio. 

British ex-pats will appreciate seeing items like an English-style breakfast, Shepherd’s Pie, and Curried Chicken Pie. For the risk-averse, their menu also features complimentary items such as Roast Beef Dip, Angus Beef Burger, and Macaroni and Cheese. Vegan and gluten-free customers need not worry, as numerous options exist. 

We took full advantage of their 40th-anniversary specials. My wife selected the Shepherd’s Pie ($12), and I went for the Fish and Chips with peas ($16). We both had $6 pints of Guinness Stout; Harp Lager is also available at the same discounted price. 

The Fish and Chips was one of the best that I’ve experienced. The battered exterior is crunchy, and the cod filet is perfectly cooked. Sprinkling that with malt vinegar whisked me back to London. The housemade tartar sauce is quite tasty. 

Shepherd’s Pie is a dish for cool evenings when you want something hearty to warm you up. The mashed potato topping was piped and browned in a salamander oven, making it resemble a white rose. A hearty beef and onion gravy was served on the side.

The food is what draws people into The Cat. An example is their Sauteed Salmon with parsnip puree served with toasted fennel, broccoli, sauteed mushrooms, and spinach. Also, their Nut Roast Wellington with assorted nuts and quinoa, carrots, celery, and onions is a popular vegan entree during Thanksgiving. 

The celebration continues through Saturday, Oct 22, with The Cat’s Afternoon Tea (reservations required) and, beginning at 8:00 p.m., live music featuring The Hailers. This LA Celtic group has performed in venues across the UK. 

Even if you can’t make it for their 40th Anniversary, the Cat and Fiddle s a great way to enjoy British favorites such as Beef Wellington, Bangers and Mash, and Shepherds Pie. They also feature specials on St. Patrick’s Day, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s Eve. 

Cat and Fiddle Pub and Restaurant, 742 N Highland Ave, Hollywood; thecatandfiddle.com