Nestled along the idyllic Thames Path in the historic market town of Wallingford sits Five Little Pigs, a contemporary yet cozy restaurant and bar that prides itself on serving up thoughtful, seasonal food. We ventured here on a sunny Sunday morning to put their new autumn brunch menu to the test.

They also had a 2-for-1 cocktail offer, given the fact that two of the three founding piggies own and run The Keep, Wallingford’s much loved gin & craft-beer bar, which opened its doors way back in 2016, you’d be in safe hands. Spiced pear Sangria, Foraged Negroni and Date Espresso Martini all priced at £12.00 were on the menu.

Things started off splendidly with the coffee – a smooth and velvety flat white featuring their signature blend from local roaster Missing Bean.

For my main, I opted for the Five Little Pigs, which came with two free-range eggs done expertly over-easy, an outdoor-reared pork sausage, roasted confit tomato, and buttered mushrooms. While the bacon was slightly underwhelming in both flavor and texture, the star player turned out to be the mushrooms. They had an incredible earthiness and richness from being cooked down in butter. The sausage was perfectly cooked, a nice colour on the outside and a good flavour. Served with a couple of slices of seeded brown (rye, perhaps?) toast, it proved a very hearty, satisfying brunch plate.

My companion chose the pumpkin and sage rosti, which delivered a rosti stack, with pak choi, crispy eggs and topped with charred sweet corn salsa and a side of tangy green tomato jam. While the rosti flavours erred slightly on the mild side, the ensemble of toppings gave each bite a wonderful medley of flavors and textures. We’d gladly order it again.

The atmosphere embraces a relaxed pace, which suits lingering over brunch perfectly. With additional offerings of small and large plates for lunch and dinner, not to mention a curated selection of wines, beers, and cocktails, Five Little Pigs makes for a fun spot to while away a weekend.

Overall, we enjoyed our experience and would certainly recommend Five Little Pigs for a fresh take on brunch in the charming riverside town of Wallingford. So whether you stick around after to explore more of the menu, or simply digest on a relaxing stroll along the river, Five Little Pigs makes for a delightful pitstop for you and your furry friends.

They also have a sister pub, The Bear of North Moreton which I’ve promptly added to my to-do list.

Five Little Pigs
26 St Mary’s St, Wallingford OX10 0ET