Which historic pub for lunch?

I've eaten at The Counting House which was quite good. Arrive early if you want fish and chips.

Old Cheshire Cheese is our favorite pub in London--mainly for the atmosphere.

I haven’t been to the others, but loved Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese!

I've had a meal at The Black Friar, nearly next to station of the same name and nearly adjacent to Apothecary Hall. Great wall tiles, decent food. I wasn't at lunch though. It may get busier at certain times with office workers.

I would probably opt for either the Counting House or Ye Olde Mitre, if only because they are Fuller Pubs, and I find their food a bit above most pubs.

Pubs are for drinking, you'll find far better food in a plethora of restaurants. Sure, there are pubs that serve good food but if your focus is on food then look for a restaurant.

I have been to all of these and Blackfriars is always our first stop whenever we go to London. I love the history and atmosphere there. The food and drink is about the same at all these pubs you have listed but for me the atmosphere is what makes the experience special. I also like this place a lot although I must admit I am newly come to it: George Inn-77 Borough High Street | Southwark, London SE1 1NH, England. Again, history and atmosphere and I have to say I really like the South Bank.

The Counting house is very nice. I have also been to the Old Bank of England. The Holly Bush is very nice. I also liked the Admiralty Pub and I loved the food at the Hereford Arms.

Next year I will be in London and am going to try the The Queen's Arms 11 Warwick Way, the Jugged Hare.

Have a great time. Let us know what pubs you enjoyed!

Princess Of Prussia, 10 minute walk from Tower Hill Station, The Dove on the Thames in Hammersmith, 15 minute stroll from Hammersmith Station, The Queens Arms in the mews by Royal Albert Hall, and the Cow saloon Bar, 15 minutes from Royal Oak.

I went to Ye Old Cheshire Cheese and loved the atmosphere. Food was fine, true it was nothing to rave about, but that's not what you go there for. If you end up there, follow the stairs down to the lowest level before deciding where you want to sit.

Another vote for The George in Borough High Street. Dickens went there when it was a coffee house and it’s mentioned in Little Dorritt. Also a fascinating building and good beer and food.

http://www.exploringsouthwark.co.uk/the-george-inn/4591684292

If you’re prepared for a small tube ride then go to Rotherhithe and visit the Mayflower. Nice food and excellent river view. In 1620 a ship called the Mayflower set off from there. I wonder where it ended up?

https://www.mayflowerpub.co.uk/history

Alan